bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the Ecological Performance of Water and Wastewater Treatment in Africa: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ogbu Charles Amarachi , Ivanova Tatiana Alexiou , Ewemoje Temitayo Abayomi , Hlavsa Tomáš , Roubik Hynek
Published: May 2023

This article is the result of a systematic review of published life cycle assessment (LCA) studies on water and wastewater treatment in Africa. After applying the search and selection criteria, 32 observations for energy use were included and 20 for the global warming potential (GWP) and the eutrophication potential (EP). The dependent variables were categorized by technical, method, and typology factors. The meta‐regression model aligned with the descriptive statistics on the variation of the dependent variables due to water source but not location. Regarding energy use, GWP, and EP, the water source and the study location had the most significant influence in contrast to the life cycle impact assessment method. There is a need for more such LCA studies in Central and Western parts of Africa.
Multi‐stage fusion regression network for quality prediction of batch process
Authors: Yao Hongjuan , Zhao Xiaoqiang , Li Wei , Hui Yongyong
Published: May 2023

In most batch processes, the correlations of process variables present multi‐stage characteristic as the process progress and operating conditions change. The methods building a local model at each stage ignore the potential correlations among stages, resulting in poor quality prediction of batch process. To solve this problem, a batch process quality prediction method based on multi‐stage fusion regression network (MSFRN) is proposed. First, the affine propagation clustering (AP) algorithm is used to automatically divide the stages for batch process without relying on prior knowledge. Second, the input reconstruction error and quality prediction error are organically combined to develop a stacked isomorphic and quality‐driven autoencoder (SIQAE) for each stage, which fully extracts the quality‐related features for each stage while reducing the input cumulative loss. Then, the self‐attention mechanism is used to integrate the quality‐related features of each stage so as to obtain global features which consider the correlations among stages. Finally, the global features are input into the fully connected regression layer to predict the quality variables of batch process. The effectiveness of the proposed method was verified by applying on penicillin fermentation process.
Hydrogen Bonding, π‐Stacking, and Aurophilic Interactions in Two Dicyanoaurate(I)‐Based Manganese(II) Complexes with Auxiliary Bis‐Pyridine Ligands
Authors: Giordana Alessia , Gomila Rosa M. , Rabezzana Roberto , Laurenti Enzo , Priola Emanuele , Eftekhari‐Sis Bagher , Mahmoudi Ghodrat , Frontera Antonio
Published: May 2023

The relevance of hydrogen‐bonding, π‐π stacking and aurophilic interactions in the solid‐state of two new heterobimetallic (AuI−MnII) complexes is analyzed in this manuscript. They are discrete complexes of formulae [Mn(bipy)2(H2O){Au(CN)2}][Au(CN)2] and [Mn(dmbipy)2{Au(CN)2}] ⋅ H2O, (bipy=2,2′‐bipyridine and dmbipy=5,5′‐dimethyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine), which are based on dicyanidoaurate(I) groups and 2,2′‐bipyridyl‐like co‐ligands. They have been synthesized in good yields and X‐ray characterized. In both compounds, aurophilic, OH⋅⋅⋅N hydrogen bonding and π‐π interactions governed the supramolecular assemblies in the solid state. These contacts with special emphasis on the aurophilic interactions have been studied using density functional theory calculations and characterized using the quantum theory of atoms‐in‐molecules and the noncovalent interaction plot. The aurophilic contacts have been also rationalized from an orbital point of view using the natural bond orbital methodology, evidencing stabilization energies up to 5.7 kcal/mol. Moreover, the interaction energies have been decomposed using the Kitaura‐Morokuma energy decomposition analysis, confirming the importance of electrostatic and orbital effects.
Full Metal Species Quantification of Supported Catalysts: Beyond Metal Dispersion
Authors: Liu Shuhui , Lin Ronghe , Liu Wei , Ding Yunjie
Published: May 2023

Metal dispersion is a key concept in heterogeneous catalysis. The conventional approaches for its estimation strongly rely on chemisorption with different probe molecules. Albeit they can generally provide an ‘averaged’ value in a cost‐effective manner, the inhomogeneity of the metal species and the complicated metal‐support interactions pose formidable challenges for the accurate determination. Full metal species quantification (FMSQ) is introduced as an advanced method to depict the whole distribution of the metal species, ranging from single atoms to clusters and nanoparticles, in a practical solid catalyst. In this approach, automated analysis of massive high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopic images is realized through algorithms specialized in combining the electron microscopy‐based atom recognition statistics and deep learning‐driven nanoparticle segmentation. In this Concept article, different techniques for determining the metal dispersion are discussed with their pros and cons. FMSQ is highlighted for it can circumvent the drawbacks of conventional approaches, allowing more reliable structure‐performance relationships beyond the metal size.
Construction of a Ce‐UiO‐66/MCo2O4 Heterojunction for Photocatalytic Cr(VI) Detoxification Through a p‐n Junction Formation Mechanism
Authors: Hosseinpour Mahdi , Khosroshahi Negin , Safarifard Vahid
Published: May 2023

Heterojunction engineering in catalyst structures is a promising approach to solve some restrictions in photocatalyst design, such as a narrow photoabsorption range and rapid recombination of photogenerated charge carriers. In this work, MCo2O4 (M=Mn, Zn, Fe) was synthesized using a template method. The porous MCo2O4 was composited by Ce‐UiO‐66 to form a heterojunction structure. The resultant material Ce‐UiO‐66/MCo2O4 had a hierarchically porous architecture and was used as a photocatalyst for Cr(VI) reduction. The coupling of Ce‐UiO‐66 and MCo2O4 resulted in a p‐n junction mechanism for charge carrier transfer. The Ce‐UiO‐66/MCo2O4 heterojunctions exhibited high Cr(VI) reduction ability under visible light irradiation over 120 min. The highest Cr(VI) photoreduction rate of the heterojunction is 14 times that of Ce‐UiO‐66. The binary heterojunction maintains high photoreduction efficiency (100 %) of Cr(VI) after four cycling tests showing excellent photocatalytic stability.
Dental cleaning behavior and related factors among hemodialysis patients in the West of Iran: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fallahi Arezoo , Hajimam Aveen Fattah , Rahmani Azam , Allahqoli Leila , Schmalz Gerhard , Nemat Babak
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Oral health‐related behaviors in hemodialysis patients are reduced, potentially leading to adverse consequences. The aim of the present study was to evaluate dental cleaning behavior (DCB) and related factors among hemodialysis patients.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was carried out in Sanandaj city, in the west of Iran in 2022. Using the census method, 115 hemodialysis patients from the dialysis center of Tohid Hospital were recruited. Data were gathered by a three‐section questionnaire. The first section included demographic characteristics, the second section involved variables related to the health belief model (HBM), and the third section assessed stages of DCB change based on the trans‐theoretical model. Analysis of data was done by assessing frequency, descriptive and inferential statistics such as t test, correlation coefficient, and regression.

Results

Only 26.1% of participants reported DCB, defined as tooth brushing at least twice daily; 30.4% were in the precontemplation stage, 26.1% in contemplation, and 17.4% in the preparation stage. Perceived self‐efficacy was lower among patients who did not perform DCB. The odds of DCB increased with perceived self‐efficacy (odds ratio [OR] = 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19–1.92, p < .05), cues to action (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.03–2.55, p < .05), and decreased with perceived barriers (OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.47–0.97, p < .01).

Conclusions

DCB of patients on hemodialysis requires improvement. Perceived self‐efficacy, cues to action, and perceived barriers constructs of the HBM should be considered in interventional programs targeting to increase oral health as well as in future research in the field.
Regulation of Polymerization Kinetics to Improve Crystallinity of Carbon Nitride for Photocatalytic Reactions
Authors: Wang Chong , Xiao Hongxiang , Lu Yichun , Lv Jinliang , Yuan Zhanhui , Cheng Jiajia
Published: May 2023

Carbon nitride (CN) polymers exhibit tunable and fascinating physicochemical properties and are thus an essential class of photocatalytic materials with potential applications. Although significant progress has been made in the fabrication of CN, the preparation of metal‐free crystalline CN via a straightforward method remains a considerable challenge. Herein, we describe a new attempt to synthesize crystalline carbon nitride (CCN) with a well‐developed structure through regulation of the polymerization kinetics. The synthetic process involves the pre‐polymerization of melamine to remove most of the ammonia and further calcination of the pre‐heated melamine in the presence of copper oxide as an ammonia absorbent. Copper oxide can decompose the ammonia produced by the polymerization process, thereby promoting the reaction. These conditions facilitate the polycondensation process while avoiding carbonization of the polymeric backbone at high temperatures. Owing to the high crystallinity, nanosheet structure, and efficient charge‐carrier transmission capacity, the as‐prepared CCN catalyst shows much higher photocatalytic activity than its counterparts. Our study provides a novel strategy for the rational design and synthesis of high‐performance carbon nitride photocatalysts by simultaneously optimizing polymerization kinetics and crystallographic structures.
Summary of validation considerations with real‐life examples using both qualitative and semiquantitative flow cytometry assays
Authors: Devitt Katherine A. , Oldaker Teri , Shah Kalpesh , Illingworth Andrea
Published: May 2023

In the clinical laboratory, flow cytometry assays are critical to providing diagnostic and prognostic information to the treating clinicians. A validation or verification provides confidence that the assay will yield reliable results that can be trusted to make critical medical decisions. The following performance specifications should be included in a validation for laboratory developed tests as needed: accuracy (or trueness), precision (reproducibility and repeatability), detection capability, selectivity, reference range, and sample and reagent stability. We define these terms and present our approach to validation of several common flow cytometry assays, including examples of a leukemia/lymphoma assay and a paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) assay.
Recent trends of potential medicinal uses of rice bran with its composition and bibliographic analysis
Authors: Kumar Vikram , Singh Pooja , Sharma Asha
Published: May 2023

Rice is an essential crop, growing in nearly every part worldwide. Grains are the most common rice plant part consumed as food; however, other plant parts also have some significant values apart from grains. Rice bran is the outer layer of the rice grain, an excellent source of various phenolic, flavonoid, and phytoactive compounds. This review article discusses the various compounds found in rice bran with their structure and properties. Different medicinal properties of rice bran are also discussed in this review article. Several constituents of rice bran show anticancerous activity through various mechanisms like cell cycle arrest and regulation of apoptotic factors. Anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and cholesterol‐lowering are the other activities of rice bran, briefly explained in the article, along with their mechanism of action. A bibliographic network, including keyword bibliography analysis and a three‐field plot, has also been discussed to show the trends and network of common keywords in the recently published documents in the Scopus database. Overall, this review explores the rice bran compositions with their structures, activity, and various medicinal uses of rice bran, which can be proven an efficient oil source for nutritional purposes.
Short‐term outcomes of heart transplant patients bridged with Impella 5.5 ventricular assist device
Authors: Haddad Osama , Sareyyupoglu Basar , Goswami Rohan M. , Bitargil Macit , Patel Parag C. , Jacob Samuel , El‐Sayed Ahmed Magdy M. , Leoni Moreno Juan Carlos , Yip Daniel S. , Landolfo Kevin , Pham Si M.
Published: May 2023

Aims

We sought to investigate the outcomes of heart transplant patients supported with Impella 5.5 temporary mechanical circulatory support.

Methods and results

Patient demographics, perioperative data, hospital timeline, and haemodynamic parameters were followed during initial admission, Impella support, and post‐transplant period. Vasoactive‐inotropic score, primary graft failure, and complications were recorded. Between March 2020 and March 2021, 16 advanced heart failure patients underwent Impella 5.5 temporary left ventricular assist device support through axillary approach. Subsequently, all these patients had heart transplantation. All patients were either ambulatory or chair bound during their temporary mechanical circulatory support until heart transplantation. Patients were kept on Impella support median of 19 days (3–31) with the median lactate dehydrogenase level of 220 (149–430). All Impella devices were removed during heart transplantation. During Impella support, patients had improved renal function with median creatinine serum level of 1.55 mg/dL decreased to 1.25 (P = 0.007), pulmonary artery pulsatility index scores increased from 2.56 (0.86–10) to 4.2 (1.3–10) (P = 0.048), and right ventricular function improved (P = 0.003). Patients maintained improved renal function and favourable haemodynamics after their heart transplantation as well. All patients survived without any significant morbidity after their heart transplantation.

Conclusions

Impella 5.5 temporary left ventricular assist device optimizes care of heart transplant recipients providing superior haemodynamic support, mobility, improved renal function, pulmonary haemodynamics, and right ventricular function. Utilizing Impella 5.5 as a direct bridging strategy to heart transplantation resulted in excellent outcomes.
FcγR‐dependent apoptosis regulates tissue persistence of mucosal and connective tissue mast cells
Authors: Wu Tongqian , Yan Shirong , Yeh Yu‐Wen , Fang Yu , Xiang Zou
Published: May 2023

Rodent mast cells can be divided into two major subtypes: the mucosal mast cell (MMC) and the connective tissue mast cell (CTMC). A decade‐old observation revealed a longer lifespan for CTMC compared with MMC. The precise mechanisms underlying such differential tissue persistence of mast cell subsets have not been described. In this study, we have discovered that mast cells expressing only one receptor, either FcγRIIB or FcγRIIIA, underwent caspase‐independent apoptosis in response to IgG immune complex treatment. Lower frequencies of CTMC in mice that lacked either FcγRIIB or FcγRIIIA compared with WT mice were recorded, especially in aged mice. We proposed that this paradigm of FcγR‐mediated mast cell apoptosis could account for the more robust persistence of CTMC, which express both FcγRIIB and FcγRIIIA, than MMC, which express only FcγRIIB. Importantly, we reproduced these results using a mast cell engraftment model, which ruled out possible confounding effects of mast cell recruitment or FcγR expression by other cells on mast cell number regulation. In conclusion, our work has uncovered an FcγR‐dependent mast cell number regulation paradigm that might provide a mechanistic explanation for the long‐observed differential mast cell subset persistence in tissues.
The G allele of SNP rs3922 reduces the binding affinity between IGF2BP3 and CXCR5 correlating with a lower antibody production
Authors: Duan Zhaojun , Ma Longfei , Jin Jing , Ma Lingyu , Ye Lilin , Wu Jianguo , Luo Yunping
Published: May 2023

Effective vaccines that function through humoral immunity seek to produce high‐affinity antibodies. Our previous research identified the single‐nucleotide polymorphism rs3922G in the 3ʹUTR of CXCR5 as being associated with nonresponsiveness to the hepatitis B vaccine. The differential expression of CXCR5 between the dark zone (DZ) and light zone (LZ) is critical for organizing the functional structure of the germinal center (GC). In this study, we report that the RNA‐binding protein IGF2BP3 can bind to CXCR5 mRNA containing the rs3922 variant to promote its degradation via the nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay pathway. Deficiency of IGF2BP3 leads to increased CXCR5 expression, which results in the disappearance of CXCR5 differential expression between DZ and LZ, disorganized GCs, aberrant somatic hypermutations, and reduced production of high‐affinity antibodies. Furthermore, the affinity of IGF2BP3 for the rs3922G‐containing sequence is lower than that for the rs3922A counterpart, which may explain the nonresponsiveness to the hepatitis B vaccination. Together, our findings suggest that IGF2BP3 plays a crucial role in the production of high‐affinity antibodies in the GC by binding to the rs3922‐containing sequence to regulate CXCR5 expression.
Towards (C,C)‐cyclometalated N‐(9‐alkylfluorenyl)NHC Ruthenium Complexes for Z‐selective Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Gajda Katarzyna , Sytniczuk Adrian , Vendier Laure , Trzaskowski Bartosz , Lugan Noël , Kajetanowicz Anna , Bastin Stéphanie , Grela Karol , César Vincent
Published: May 2023

Three Hoveyda‐Grubbs complexes supported by N‐(9‐alkylfluorenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene ligands (alkyl=methyl, ethyl or benzyl) have been synthesized. With the aim to generate chelating, cyclometalated (C,CNHC) ruthenium complexes for Z‐selective olefin metathesis, the C(sp3)‐H activation of the dangling alkyl group has been studied. While the methyl derivative leads to the expected cyclometalated complex, a C(sp2)‐H activation of the fluorenyl moiety and no evolution/transformation are observed for the ethyl and benzyl derivatives, respectively. Although highly fragile under catalytic conditions, the cyclometalated complex leads to Z/E stereoselectivity up to 94/6. An unprecedented insertion of the alkylidene moiety into the Ru‐CNHC bond leading to ruthenium N‐heterocyclic olefin complexes is also observed and supported by calculations of the corresponding reaction pathway.
Investigation of phase difference and separation distance effects in the design of a dual flapping hydrofoil turbine
Authors: Jeong Dasom , Nguyen Le Dang Hai , Ko Jin Hwan
Published: May 2023

In this study, a parametric analysis was conducted for the design of a suggested dual flapping hydrofoil turbine. A Navier–Stokes‐based computational fluid dynamics code was utilized for the analysis while varying the pitch angle, reduced frequency, separation distance, and phase difference. The smallest pitch angle of 60° and the reduced frequency of 0.1 among the given ranges of the parameters were fixed for the first parametric analysis. After an assessment, the 90° front‐lead with the longest distance of 6c and the 90° rear‐lead with the shortest distance of 2c were chosen for further parametric analysis based on a suggested performance indicator and a margin for improvement. It was derived from a subsequent parametric analysis that a 70° pitch angle, 0.12 reduced frequency, and a 4c distance for the 90° front‐lead was the final optimum with 59.48% efficiency and 55.44% fluctuation according to the performance indicator as well as the system length and power balance of dual hydrofoils.
What's in a name? The paradox of citizen science and community science
Authors: Lin Hunter Danielle E , Newman Gregory J , Balgopal Meena M
Published: May 2023

Citizen science has expanded ecological and environmental sciences by actualizing studies across greater spatial and temporal scales while incorporating local expertise and interests that might otherwise be overlooked. Broadly, citizen science involves the public in the process of science. However, it continues to struggle to engage diverse participants. Citizen science project coordinators are increasingly trying to promote inclusivity by rebranding as community science to avoid the term citizen. Although well intentioned, rebranding efforts are uninformed by research because an evidence‐based understanding of these terms is lacking. On the basis of results from a survey distributed to participants in citizen and community science, we found differences in how well known and accepted the terms are, who is perceived as initiating and benefiting from the projects, and associated levels of inclusivity. Our findings have important implications for those involved in citizen and community science seeking to better describe projects in the future.
Valedictory lecture: We are rooted but we flow
Authors: Braidotti Rosi
Published: May 2023

This is the text of the valedictory lecture that Rosi Braidotti delivered in June 2022, to mark the retirement from her academic position at Utrecht University. It was conceived as a spoken text and written within the rhetorical tradition of valedictory speeches. The text traces the different phases of Braidotti's career in terms of institutional practice and theoretical developments over the last 40 years. Combining academic analysis with deep ethical passion, Braidotti argues for the need of combining critique with creativity, and radicalism with excellence, to highlight the relevance of the new humanities for our troubled world. Ending on a high note of affirmative ethics, Braidotti calls for a more inclusive, diverse and critical practice of the humanities, as a living experiment of what we are capable of becoming.
Assessing anatomical distribution of atopic dermatitis identifies a cluster of patients with late onset and low risk of asthma and allergy: An observational study
Authors: Ali Zarqa , Anderson Kathryn , Andersen Anders D. , Dahiya Priyanka , Zibert John R. , Thomsen Simon F.
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

A better understanding of distinct subgroups in atopic dermatitis (AD) is warranted. The aim was to identify and determine characteristics of clusters based on anatomical location of AD.

Methods

In this 8‐week, observational, decentralized study, patients with AD completed a baseline questionnaire about anatomical location and severity of AD, and a principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to identify clusters. The Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM) was completed weekly and photographs of affected body areas were captured by the participants' own smartphones. From the weekly photographs, the AD severity was evaluated using the intensity part of the SCORing Atopic Dermatitis.

Results

Fifty‐five participants were recruited, of which 53 completed the baseline questionnaire with a mean POEM of 14.5 (SD: 5.6). The PCA analysis revealed three clusters, with AD predominantly on the shins, knees, and genitals (Cluster 1), with involvement of the upper body (Cluster 2), and with AD on the hands and feet (Cluster 3). Cluster 1 had a lower mean POEM score (11.12, SD: 5.3) compared with Clusters 2 (12.64, SD: 4.5) and 3 (15.98, SD: 4.7), respectively (p = 0.007). Further, Cluster 1 had the highest age of AD onset (mean 9.5 vs. 2.5 and 4.7 years, p = 0.02) and the lowest proportion of asthma/allergy (47% vs. 82% and 90%, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Three clusters of patients with AD based on affected body areas were identified. The cluster with involvement of legs and genitals was characterized by the oldest age of AD onset and the lowest prevalence of asthma/allergy.
Multiple indicators of violence against female sex workers and its associated factors in Ghana: Evidence from the 2015 integrated bio‐behavioral surveillance survey cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ayamah Paul , Aheto Justice Moses K. , Atuahene Kyeremeh S. , Annang Dennis A. , Nartey David T. , Amuasi Sue A. , Abrefa‐Gyan Tina
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Violence against female sex workers (FSWs) is a widespread phenomenon, especially in African nations like Ghana where sex work is outlawed primarily because of the pervasive worldview that sex work is a contravention of morality. Violence against FSWs deters them from accessing critical health services and heightens their risk of STIs including HIV infection. The study examined the prevalence and the associated factors of multiple indicators of violence against FSWs.

Methods

The study utilized a cross‐sectional secondary data from the 2015 Integrated Bio‐Behavioral Surveillance Survey conducted among FSWs and their nonpaying partners by Ghana AIDS Commission. We analysed data on a total of 4279 participants. Bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were utilized to identify factors associated with physical and sexual violence against FSWs. Data were analysed using Stata version 15.

Results

Of the 4279 FSWs, 433 (10%) and 1059 (25%) suffered physical and sexual violence, respectively. The predictors of physical violence are being a seater (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36–0.74), aged ≥40 (aOR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.08–0.64), nonuse of drugs (aOR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.44–0.70), not using alcohol before sex (aOR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.56–0.86) and petty business (aOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.05–1.82). Sexual violence was predicted by those aged 31–40 (aOR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.49–0.94) and age ≥40 (aOR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.22–0.66), currently married (aOR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.27–0.67), having no living children (aOR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51–0.94), nonuse of drugs (aOR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.68–0.94), and not using alcohol before sex (aOR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.63–0.86). Region was associated with both physical and sexual violence. Both physical and sexual violence had negative consequences on consistency of condom use and condom failure among FSWs.

Conclusion

Physical and sexual violence against FSWs is pervasive, and a critical public health issue in Ghana. The identified associated factors could be considered as part of an overall strategy aimed at addressing the menace.
Comparison of echocardiographic pulmonary flow Doppler markers in patients with massive or submassive acute pulmonary embolism and control group: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bigdelu Leila , Daloee Mahdi Hasanzadeh , Emadzadeh Maryam , Parsa Leila , Najafi Mahnaz , Baradaran Rahimi Vafa
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of massive (MPE) and submassive pulmonary embolism (SMPE). Ultrasound has not been accepted as a diagnostic tool. We aim to evaluate the pattern of pulmonary Doppler echocardiography in patients with pulmonary embolism (PE).

Methods

From 2020 to 2022, 30 patients with acute MPE or SMPE confirmed by CTA and normal pulmonary pressures were selected. A control group was created with 30 individuals without PE. All patients had an echocardiography Doppler study of the pulmonary flow with a focus on early systolic notching (ESN), McConnell's (MC) sign, Right ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral (RVOT VTI), segmental thickness variability (STV), right ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (RVEDD), tricuspid regurgitation (TR) gradient, pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), and acceleration (AT) or ejection time (ET).

Results

ESN was identified in 96.6% of PE patients and 0% of the control group (p < 0.001). In comparison with the control group, STV (p < 0.001), RVOT VTI (p < 0.001), ET (p = 0.04), and AT (p < 0.001) values were lower in patients with PE while RVEDD, TR gradient, PAP, ESN, MC sign, and
d‐shape were higher (p < 0.001). Identification of the ESN pattern and AT/ET < 0.4 showed excellent predictive ability for MPE and SMPE with a sensitivity of 97.0% and 100%, specificity of 99.0% and 97%, and an area under the ROC curve of 0.967 (95% CI 0.914−1.00) and 0.933 (95% CI 0.844−1.00), respectively.

Conclusion

Doppler echocardiography with particular attention to ESN, may be a suitable noninvasive method for the diagnosis of MPE and SMPE. Further studies with more sample sizes are needed to confirm its diagnostic benefit.
Thermo‐mechanical analysis of tumor‐tissue during cryosurgery: A numerical study
Authors: Krishna G. Sai , Paul Anup
Published: May 2023

For decades, many techniques have been developed for curing cancer. Cryosurgery is one of such processes for destroying tumors by inserting a cryoprobe into the target region which is connected to a cryogenic mechanism. Presently, this technique is used only for curing simple tumors. Hence, this work aims to trigger this technique toward curing large‐sized internal tumors. The main objectives of this work are (1) to identify the mechanical and thermal behavior of the tumor tissue by conducting a parametric study, (2) to analyze the pain sensation during this process and (3) to identify the constraints of this surgery technique. The whole study was done using COMSOL Multiphysics™ software. A 3‐D model has been presented, considering all the properties to be a function of temperature. Also, the phase transformation bio‐liquid to ice was considered in the study. Results showed the temperature and stress distributions in both tumors and surrounding healthy tissue under different operating conditions. Heat transfer and thermal‐stress in the tissue increased with increase in probe diameter and decrease in tumor size and reached a steady state at around 50 min. The results gave an idea about the time of operation, pain experience and the effect of cryosurgery on the surrounding healthy tissue. Treatment becomes simpler as the tumor moves out of the tissue. The threshold treatment period was predicted to be 50 min, after which patients could expect to experience severe pain. This study might help researchers and surgeons in improving the understanding of cryosurgery process along with its limitations.
KEYNOTE‐033: Randomized phase 3 study of pembrolizumab vs docetaxel in previously treated, PD‐L1‐positive, advanced NSCLC
Authors: Ren Shengxiang , Feng Jifeng , Ma Shenglin , Chen HuaJun , Ma Zhiyong , Huang Cheng , Zhang Li , He Jianxing , Wang Changli , Zhou Jianying , Danchaivijitr Pongwut , Wang Chin‐Chou , Vynnychenko Ihor , Wang Kai , Orlandi Francisco , Sriuranpong Virote , Li Ben , Ge Jun , Dang Thao , Zhou Caicun
Published: May 2023

KEYNOTE‐033 (NCT02864394) was a multicountry, open‐label, phase 3 study that compared pembrolizumab vs docetaxel in previously treated, programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1)‐positive, advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with most patients enrolled in mainland China. Eligible patients were randomized (1:1) to pembrolizumab 2 mg/kg or docetaxel 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks. Primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival and were evaluated sequentially using stratified log‐rank tests, first in patients with PD‐L1 tumor proportion score (TPS) ≥50% and then in patients with PD‐L1 TPS ≥1% (significance threshold: P < .025, one‐sided). A total of 425 patients were randomized to pembrolizumab (N = 213) or docetaxel (N = 212) between 8 September 2016 and 17 October 2018. In patients with a PD‐L1 TPS ≥50% (n = 227), median OS was 12.3 months with pembrolizumab and 10.9 months with docetaxel; the hazard ratio (HR) was 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61‐1.14; P = .1276). Because the significance threshold was not met, sequential testing of OS and PFS was ceased. In patients with a PD‐L1 TPS ≥1%, the HR for OS for pembrolizumab vs docetaxel was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.60‐0.95). In patients from mainland China (n = 311) with a PD‐L1 TPS ≥1%, HR for OS was 0.68 (95% CI: 0.51‐0.89). Incidence of grade 3 to 5 treatment‐related AEs was 11.3% with pembrolizumab vs 47.5% with docetaxel. In summary, pembrolizumab improved OS vs docetaxel in previously treated, PD‐L1‐positive NSCLC without unexpected safety signals; although the statistical significance threshold was not reached, the numerical improvement is consistent with that previously observed for pembrolizumab in previously treated, advanced NSCLC.
Nationwide Trends in Osteoporosis in Koreans With Disabilities From 2008 to 2017
Authors: Kim Ji Hyoun , Kim So Young , Park Jong Eun , Kim Hyo Jong , Jeon Hyun Jeong , Kim Yeon Yong , Park Jong‐Hyock
Published: May 2023

This study examined the 10‐year trends in the prevalence of osteoporosis according to disability grade and type compared with those without disabilities in South Korea. We linked national disability registration data with the National Health Insurance claims data. Age‐ and sex‐standardized prevalence of osteoporosis were analyzed from 2008 to 2017 according to sex, disability type, and disability grade. Adjusted odds ratios for osteoporosis according to disability characteristics in the most recent years' data were also confirmed by multivariate analysis. Over the past decade, the prevalence of osteoporosis has increased in people with disabilities compared with people without disabilities, and the gap has gradually widened from 7% to 15%. By analysis of the most recent year data, both male and female individuals with disabilities had a higher risk of osteoporosis than those without disability (odds ratios [OR] 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.70–1.73 in males; OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.27–1.28 in females); the multivariate‐adjusted OR was especially prominent in disability related to respiratory disease (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.93–2.21 in males; OR 1.74; 95% CI 1.60–1.90 in females), epilepsy (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.78–2.61 in males; OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.53–1.91 in females), and physical disability types (OR 2.09, 95% CI 2.06–2.21 in males; OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.69–1.71 in females). In conclusion, the prevalence and risk of osteoporosis have increased in people with disabilities in Korea. In particular, the risk of osteoporosis increases significantly in people with respiratory diseases, epilepsy, and physical disability types. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bi‐tailed N‐cationic surfactant promoted green synthesis of 2‐amino‐5‐oxo‐4‐alkyl‐4,5‐dihydropyrano[3,2‐c]chromene‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives via multicomponent reaction
Authors: Parthiban Devendiran
Published: May 2023

Diversely functionalized 2‐amino‐5‐oxo‐4‐alkyl‐4,5‐dihydropyrano[3,2‐c]chromene‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives were synthesized from substituted aromatic aldehydes, 4‐hydroxy coumarin and malononitrile using benzethonium chloride as an easily available, less explored green catalyst and 1:4 (EtOH:H2O) as a green solvent via multicomponent reaction. All the products were thoroughly characterized by infrared (IR), 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and mass spectral analyses. Synthesized compounds were screened rule of five for drug‐likeness and green matrix properties.
Current Understanding of the Anatomy, Physiology, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Neurofluids: Update From the 2022 “ISMRM Imaging Neurofluids Study group” Workshop in Rome
Authors: Agarwal Nivedita , Lewis Laura D. , Hirschler Lydiane , Rivera Leonardo Rivera , Naganawa Shinji , Levendovszky Swati Rane , Ringstad Geir , Klarica Marijan , Wardlaw Joanna , Iadecola Costantino , Hawkes Cheryl , Carare Roxana Octavia , Wells Jack , Bakker Erik N.T.P. , Kurtcuoglu Vartan , Bilston Lynne , Nedergaard Maiken , Mori Yuki , Stoodley Marcus , Alperin Noam , de Leon Mony , van Osch Matthias J.P.
Published: May 2023

Neurofluids is a term introduced to define all fluids in the brain and spine such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and interstitial fluid. Neuroscientists in the past millennium have steadily identified the several different fluid environments in the brain and spine that interact in a synchronized harmonious manner to assure a healthy microenvironment required for optimal neuroglial function. Neuroanatomists and biochemists have provided an incredible wealth of evidence revealing the anatomy of perivascular spaces, meninges and glia and their role in drainage of neuronal waste products. Human studies have been limited due to the restricted availability of noninvasive imaging modalities that can provide a high spatiotemporal depiction of the brain neurofluids. Therefore, animal studies have been key in advancing our knowledge of the temporal and spatial dynamics of fluids, for example, by injecting tracers with different molecular weights. Such studies have sparked interest to identify possible disruptions to neurofluids dynamics in human diseases such as small vessel disease, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and dementia. However, key differences between rodent and human physiology should be considered when extrapolating these findings to understand the human brain. An increasing armamentarium of noninvasive MRI techniques is being built to identify markers of altered drainage pathways. During the three‐day workshop organized by the International Society of Magnetic Resonance in Medicine that was held in Rome in September 2022, several of these concepts were discussed by a distinguished international faculty to lay the basis of what is known and where we still lack evidence. We envision that in the next decade, MRI will allow imaging of the physiology of neurofluid dynamics and drainage pathways in the human brain to identify true pathological processes underlying disease and to discover new avenues for early diagnoses and treatments including drug delivery.

Evidence level: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3
Can mass customization slow fast fashion down? The impact on time‐to‐disposal and willingness‐to‐pay
Authors: Alptekinoglu Aydin , Stadler Blank Ashley , Meloy Margaret G. , Guide V. Daniel R.
Published: May 2023

We experimentally investigate whether mass customization enhances sustainability and firm outcomes in a fast fashion context. Fast fashion delivers fashion trends to consumers quickly and cheaply but has detrimental effects on the environment (e.g., waste accumulation, water pollution). To mitigate these harmful effects, we examine how different points of customer involvement in mass customization affect the anticipated number of months to product disposal and willingness‐to‐pay for mass‐customized products. We employ a series of experiments and find that consumer perceptions of the degree of customization increase as the point of customer involvement shifts upstream from Use to Assembly to Fabrication to Design and that the anticipated number of months to disposal and willingness‐to‐pay increase as the point of customer involvement shifts upstream to Design. We also find that the implementation of customer involvement in mass customization matters. Overall, these results provide evidence that mass customization via Design may not only help slow fast fashion down, which has major sustainability implications, but it may also present a win‐win opportunity for both the environment and firms (in terms of the bottom line—provided, of course, that it does not have any major cost disadvantages).
Kelvin's Tetrakaidecahedron as a Wigner–Seitz Cell Found in Spherically Microphase‐Separated BCC Lattice from AB Diblock Copolymer by Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Suzuki Jiro , Matsushita Yushu
Published: May 2023

Metropolis Monte–Carlo simulation is carried out for microphase‐separated bulk state of AB diblock copolymers with various compositions. The distribution probability of end segments in long B‐block chain are explored to determine the Wigner–Seitz(WS) cells as primitive cells for four known periodic structures, lamellar‐, Gyroid‐, cylindrical‐, and spherical ones. The end segments are commonly turned to be localized at the several distinct far sites from the lattice points of WS cells for all morphologies investigated. Among them, when the fraction of A segments is 0.25, a hexagonal prism type column appears as a WS, while when the fraction is much lower at 0.1, body‐centered cubic(BCC) lattice is formed and its end segments are found to be localized at hexagonal frames and also on the six square faces of truncated octahedron or Kelvin's Tetrakaidecahedron(KT), which has rarely been found in real soft material ever. This achievement is strongly pointing that each micelle formed by self‐assembled diblock coplymers in bulk have essentially the framework of equivolume KT in real material systems.
The Influence of Zinc and Citrate on T Cell Activation and Differentiation in Mixed Lymphocyte Cultures
Authors: Weisenfeld Stefanie Ramona , Jakobs Jana , Rink Lothar
Published: May 2023

Scope

Zinc is important for a balanced immune system, but the mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated. One possibility is an interaction of zinc with the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA), in which zinc inhibits the mitochondrial aconitase leading to an increase in intracellular citrate concentration as described for prostate cells. Therefore, the immune modulatory effects of zinc and citrate and their interaction in mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC) are studied.

Methods and results

After allogeneic (MLC) or superantigen stimulation, the interferon‐γ (IFNγ) production is quantified by ELISA and T cell subpopulations are determined by Western Blot. Intracellular concentrations of citrate and zinc are measured. Zinc and citrate reduce the IFNγ expression and the pro‐inflammatory T helper cells (Th) 1 and Th17 in MLC. While zinc increases regulatory T cells, citrate reduces them. After superantigen stimulation IFNγ production is decreased only by citrate but increased by zinc. Zinc does not affect citrate concentration, while citrate impairs zinc uptake. Thus, zinc and citrate independently regulate IFNy expression.

Conclusion

These results may explain the immunosuppressive effect of blood products anticoagulated by citrate. In addition, high citrate consumption may lead to immunosuppressive effects, so upper limits for citrate should be established.
Design of digital beamforming for 5G access point applications
Authors: Drissi Meriem , Benjelloun Nabil , Descamps Philippe , Gharsallah Ali
Published: May 2023

Since the software‐defined radio digital beamforming (DBF) system is the newest tendency in fifth‐generation (5G) development and based on its flexibility applied to antenna arrays, this research paper presents a smart antenna array architecture operating in C‐band (3.48 GHz). In developing DBF for 5G access points with beamforming capacities, it is first necessary to perform an accurate approach that identifies the position of the desired user and affects the beamforming processing. In this article, a feasible approach is represented to evaluate and test three angle‐of‐arrival algorithms. To ensure the robustness of the system, the system structure with its four main components, the transmit subsystem, the synchronization subsystem, the receive subsystem, and data processing are described in detail. This article presents a reasonably inexpensive prototype DBF in conjunction with a Universal Software Radio Peripheral B210 board. Experimental measurements and results confirm the suggested methodology.
Novel design of high isolation compact printed monopoles array for dual‐band application
Authors: Cheng Yi‐Feng , Cheng Kwok‐Keung M.
Published: May 2023

This article presents a novel two‐element printed monopole MIMO design for dual‐band operation with high port isolation and compact size. Upper‐band (f2) decoupling is achieved by the optimal meandering of the monopole, while the lower band (f1) decoupling is attained by the insertion of a new T‐shaped neutralization line structure. Unlike conventional decoupling techniques, the proposed method offers independent control of decoupling performance at two widely spaced frequency bands, without any bulky structure. For validation, a printed monopole MIMO antenna designed to operate at 2.45 and 5.0 GHz, is fabricated and measured. Simulation and experimental results indicate that the proposed dual‐band antenna exhibit high port isolation (20 dB/25 dB) with enhanced efficiency (92%) and reduced ECC values (<0.05).
Tissue response to a novel bone adhesive implanted subcutaneously in rats: A histological and gene expression analysis
Authors: Marx Daniella , Phull Sunjeev , Papini Marcello , Towler Mark
Published: May 2023

Median sternotomy provides access to the heart and surrounding valves for cardiothoracic surgery. However, complications arise such as micro‐motion and separation between the two sternal halves. To prevent these complications, the use of a bone adhesive has been proposed to augment the mechanical union of the two sternal halves when combined with wire cerclage. Our group has developed a bone adhesive for sternal fixation, utilizing a glass polyalkenoate cement (GPC) based on a zinc silicate ionomeric glass (mole fraction: SiO2:0.48, ZnO:0.36, CaO:0.12, SrO:0.04). Here we present the first soft‐tissue biological safety assessment of this novel Sr/Zn‐GPC, where we implanted the material subcutaneously in rats for 6 and 12 weeks. Polymethyl‐methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement was used as a baseline control with respect to inflammation and biocompatibility. Histological assessment revealed no adverse tissue reaction nor ectopic bone formation in response to the novel material. Additionally, relative expression of pro‐inflammatory and osteogenic genes (Col1a1, SOX9, Runx2, IL‐1, IL‐6, and TNF‐α) was assessed in the tissue surrounding implants and revealed no significant differences in expression between the Sr/Zn‐GPC and PMMA implants.
ICS‐SUFU standard: Theory, terms, and recommendations for pressure‐flow studies performance, analysis, and reporting. Part 2: Analysis of PFS, reporting, and diagnosis
Authors: Rosier Peter F. W. M. , Gammie Andrew , Valdevenito Juan Pablo , Speich John , Smith Phillip , Sinha Sanjay ,   the members of the ICS Working Group PFS23
Published: May 2023

Aims

The Working Group (WG), initiated by the International Continence Society (ICS) Standardisation Steering Committee and supported by the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine and Urogenital Reconstruction, has revised the ICS Standard for pressure‐flow studies of 1997.

Methods

Based on the ICS standard for developing evidence‐based standards, the WG developed this new ICS standard in the period from May 2020 to December 2022. A draft was posted on the ICS website in December 2022 to facilitate public discussion and the comments received have been incorporated into this final release.

Results

The WG has recommended analysis principles for the diagnosis of voiding dysfunction for adult men and women without relevant neurological abnormalities. New standard terms and parameters for objective and continuous grading of urethral resistance (UR), bladder outflow obstruction (BOO) and detrusor voiding contraction (DVC) are introduced in this part 2 of the standard. The WG has summarized the theory and recommendations for the practice of pressure‐flow study (PFS) for patients in part 1. A pressure‐flow plot is recommended for the diagnosis of every patient, in addition to time‐based graphs. Voided percentage and post void residual volume should always be included in PFS analysis and diagnosis. Only parameters that represent the ratio or subtraction of pressure and synchronous flow are recommended to quantify UR and only parameters that combine pressure and flow in a product or sum are recommended to quantify DVC. The ICS BOO index and the ICS detrusor contraction index are introduced in this part 2 as the standard. The WG has suggested clinical PFS dysfunction classes for male and female patients. A pressure‐flow scatter graph including every patient's pdet at maximum flow (pdetQmax) with maximum flow rate (Qmax) point should be included in all scientific reports considering voiding dysfunction.

Conclusion

PFS is the gold standard used to objectively assess voiding function. Quantifying the dysfunction and grading of abnormalities are standardized for adult males and females.