bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the effectiveness of three‐dimensionally printed anatomical models compared with plastinated human specimens in learning cardiac and neck anatomy: A randomized crossover study
Authors: Mogali Sreenivasulu Reddy , Chandrasekaran Ramya , Radzi Shairah , Peh Zhen Kai , Tan Gerald Jit Shen , Rajalingam Preman , Yee Yeong Wai
Published: August 2021

Three‐dimensional printing (3DP) technology has been increasingly applied in health profession education. Yet, 3DP anatomical models compared with the plastinated specimens as learning scaffolds are unclear. A randomized‐controlled crossover study was used to evaluate the objective outcomes of 3DP models compared with the plastinated specimens through an introductory lecture and team study for learning relatively simple (cardiac) and complex (neck) anatomies. Given the novel multimaterial and multicolored 3DP models are replicas of the plastinated specimens, it is hypothesized that 3DP models have the same educational benefits to plastinated specimens. This study was conducted in two phases in which participants were randomly assigned to 3DP (n = 31) and plastinated cardiac groups (n = 32) in the first phase, whereas same groups (3DP, n = 15; plastinated, n = 18) used switched materials in the second phase for learning neck anatomy. The pretest, educational activities and posttest were conducted for each phase. Miller's framework was used to assess the cognitive outcomes. There was a significant improvement in students' baseline knowledge by 29.7% and 31.3% for Phase 1; 31.7% and 31.3% for Phase 2 plastinated and 3DP models. Posttest scores for cardiac (plastinated, 3DP mean ± SD: 57.0 ± 13.3 and 60.8 ± 13.6, P = 0.27) and neck (70.3 ± 15.6 and 68.3 ± 9.9, P = 0.68) phases showed no significant difference. In addition, no difference observed when cognitive domains compared for both cases. These results reflect that introductory lecture plus either the plastinated or 3DP modes were effective for learning cardiac and neck anatomy.
Statistische Verteilung von Rissabständen und Rissbreiten in Stahlbetonbauteilen
Authors: Cramer Jonas , Empelmann Martin
Published: August 2021

Der Nachweis der Rissbreite verfolgt das Ziel, Maximalwerte der Rissbreite zu begrenzen, sodass der Nachweis gemäß DIN EN 1992‐1‐1 nicht auf Basis von Mittelwerten, sondern mit charakteristischen Werten erfolgt. Da entsprechende Quantilwerte oder auch Maximalwerte versuchstechnisch nur sehr aufwendig zu erfassen sind, ist eine Validierung bestehender Nachweisformeln – insbesondere für variierende Randbedingungen – schwierig. Werden dagegen experimentelle Mittelwerte verwendet, ist eine Umrechnung auf Maximalwerte bzw. definierte Quantilwerte erforderlich. Entsprechende Umrechnungsfaktoren lassen sich letztlich aus dem Verteilungstyp und der Streubreite ermitteln, wobei sich die Fachwelt bei dem Verteilungstyp von Rissabständen und Rissbreiten (zumeist normalverteilt oder log‐normalverteilt) uneins ist. Zur genaueren Untersuchung der statistischen Verteilung von Rissabständen und Rissbreiten wurde ein rheologisches Modell hinsichtlich einer freien Rissbildung erweitert und mit Versuchen validiert. Bei der anschließenden Parameteranalyse hinsichtlich der Streuung von Rissabständen und Rissbreiten zeigten sich deutliche Unterschiede zwischen der Verteilung der Rissabstände und der Verteilung der Rissbreiten, sodass die Streuung beider Parameter differenziert zu betrachten ist.
Time‐resolved X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy of Solvated [Ru(m‐bpy)3]2+ Complex: Electronic Structures of 3dd State
Authors: Ma Rory , Hong Kiryong , Kim Yujin , Lee Jae Hyuk , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: August 2021

Ru L3‐edge time‐resolved X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (TR‐XAS) was applied to unravel photo‐induced excited state dynamics of solvated [Ru(m‐bpy)3]2+ (m‐bpy = 6‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine) complex. The Ru L3‐edge probes 2p core‐level transitions, enabling to monitor the electronic structure of excited 3dd state. TR‐XAS and time‐dependent density functional theory were utilized to directly visualize the charge density of 3dd state around the Ru atom during the relaxation cascade of [Ru(m‐bpy)3]2+ complex. The formation of 3dd state is attributed to the reduced effective ligand field strength, which was derived from the TR‐XAS of 3dd state at 100 ps. These results highlight the role of ligand‐field 3dd state in the photo‐induced relaxation dynamics of [Ru(m‐bpy)3]2+ complex.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with HBV‐HCV coinfection in adult: Case report
Authors: Bendari Mounia , Delsa Hanane , Bouanani Nouama , Jabouri Rajaa , Darouich Safaa , Nejjari Sara , Guessous Fadila , Doghmi Kamal
Published: August 2021

The case reported is the first case in Morocco to our knowledge. The reason for sharing this case is to facilitate knowledge transfer between physicians, caring for adult patients with HLH, with the aim to improve the outcome of these patients.
Virtual training on advanced hybrid closed‐loop system MiniMed 780G in a teenager with type 1 diabetes previously treated with multiple daily injections: A case report
Authors: Petrovski Goran , Campbell Judith , Almajali Douha , Al Khalaf Fawziya , Hussain Khalid
Published: August 2021

Virtual pump training program for novel devices in people with type 1 diabetes on multiple daily injections can be an effective tool to initiate an advanced HCL system (MiniMed 780G) and to improve glycemic control in a safe manner without severe hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
Anemia in a young Guinean male
Authors: Wilcox Nicholas S. , Tapé Chantal , Cordisco Anthony J. , Than Minh T. , Zuroff Leah , Dobkin Jane , Massa Ryan C. , Lytle Andrew G. , Bagg Adam , Min Htun , Glaser Laurel J. , Kosseim Laura M.
Published: August 2021

The etiology of anemia in adults is often multifactorial. This case highlights an uncommon combination of causes of anemia and the importance of a diagnostic workup guided by a patient's unique history, risk factors, and laboratory findings.
Phosphate‐Based Self‐Immolative Linkers for Tuneable Double Cargo Release
Authors: Šimon Petr , Tichotová Markéta , García Gallardo María , Procházková Eliška , Baszczyňski Ondřej
Published: August 2021

Invited for the cover of this issue are Eliška Procházková, Ondřej Baszczyňski, and colleagues at IOCB (Prague) and Charles University (Prague). The image depicts phosphorus‐based, double‐cargo, self‐immolative linkers capable of releasing both cargos sequentially after activation by light. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202101805.
Pasteur and chirality: A story of how serendipity favors the prepared minds
Authors: Vantomme Ghislaine , Crassous Jeanne
Published: August 2021

During the XIXth century, France has been the theater of many discoveries in stereochemistry thanks to prestigious physicists, chemists, and crystallographers. Among them, Louis Pasteur is certainly the father of molecular chirality (the so‐called molecular dissymmetry), and because of the exceptionally favored conditions of his famous discovery on the resolution of tartrates, his findings have often been attributed to serendipity. But let us not forget that “in the fields of observation, chance only favors the prepared minds.”
Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Activity in Adverse Events Reporting After Placebo Administration
Authors: Benedetti Fabrizio , Amanzio Martina , Giovannelli Fabio , Craigs‐Brackhahn Karen , Shaibani Aziz
Published: August 2021

Participants of clinical trials who receive a placebo treatment often report a variety of adverse events, sometimes called nocebo effects. The reason why these adverse events occur is not clear, and understanding the underlying mechanisms represents a challenge that is likely to improve the interpretation of clinical trials as well as medical practice. Here, we studied 192 healthy subjects who received placebo oxygen through a mask after reading (READ) or not reading (NO‐READ) a list of possible adverse events of oxygen breathing: headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, and cough. The whole hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal axis was assessed just before and right after placebo breathing by measuring the hypothalamic corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), pituitary adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and adrenal cortisol (COR). In addition, both state and trait anxiety were assessed. We found that 64.5% of the NO‐READ group reported no adverse events, 30.2% had one, and only 5.2% had two adverse events. In contrast, only 20.8% of the READ group reported no adverse events, whereas 1, 2, 3, and 4 adverse events were reported with a frequency of 21.8%, 19.8%, 19.8%, and 17.7%, respectively. In addition, when the READ group reported three and four adverse events, CRH, ACTH, and COR were significantly increased compared to the NO‐READ group, along with an increase in state anxiety scores. These data indicate that hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal activity and state anxiety are increased in those subjects who report many adverse events after reading a list of adverse events, thus highlighting a possible neuroendocrine mechanism after placebo administration.
Maternal care, infant fear memory retention, and the moderating role of variations in separation‐induced ultrasonic vocalizations
Authors: Harmon‐Jones Sylvia K. , Richardson Rick
Published: August 2021

Individual differences in parental care predict variations in offspring anxiety across species. Here, we examined whether between‐ and within‐litter variations in maternal licking (a measure of rodent maternal care) predict infant rats’ retention of an aversive association (a predictor of later anxiety‐like behavior) and whether the relationship between maternal licking and infant fear memory is moderated by variations in infants’ solicitation of maternal care. Unique marks were drawn on each pup, coded for fading, and touched up daily across the first week of life. Mark fading was used as an index of maternal licking where greater fading suggested more maternal licking the previous day. Separation‐induced ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) were recorded to measure individual differences in solicitation of maternal care. Infants were fear conditioned at postnatal day (P) 17 and tested for fear of the conditioned stimulus (CS) 1 week later. Across litters, mark fading negatively predicted CS‐elicited fear at test for male, but not female, offspring. This relationship was moderated by number of USVs emitted at P1, such that mark fading only predicted CS‐elicited fear for males that emitted a low number of USVs. These results suggest that offspring solicitation may moderate the relationship between maternal care and fear/anxiety.
Environment‐Friendly Synergistic Abiotic Stress for Enhancing the Yield of Lipids from Oleaginous Yeasts
Authors: Chaturvedi Shivani , Sadaf Ayesha , Bhattacharya Amrik , Rout Prasant Kumar , Nain Lata , Khare Sunil Kumar
Published: August 2021

The microbial lipids isolated from oleaginous yeasts are a potential alternative to tree borne oils. There is a need to optimize and enhance the production of lipid by various stress approaches. In the present study, yeasts are subjected to physico‐chemical stresses, and growth, as well as lipid concentration at different time intervals are monitored. It is found that the nanoparticles (NP) such as Ag‐NP and Zn‐NP have an inhibitory effect on yeast growth. Most yeast strains show an increase in growth and lipid accumulation when ionic liquid (1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate) ([EMIM][OAc]) and table salt (NaCl) stress are applied. Lipid is chemically characterized using gas chromatography furnished with flame ionization detector (GC‐FID), GC/MS, and NMR techniques. It contains a higher percentage of saturated fatty acids (SFA: 74.3%), monounsaturated fatty acids (19.1%) with low amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (1.9%). The thermo‐stability study reveals that the lipid have higher volatility (380–410 °C) as closely compared with coconut oil, and much lower with respect to the winged bean oil (430–470 °C). The melting point of the lipids (37 °C) is determined through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The DSC and physico‐chemical properties are supported that the yeast lipids may use as a cocoa‐butter substitute. Production of lipid under NaCl stress (200 × 10−3 m) is more than 60.4% higher as compared to the control. However, the combined stress effect of NaCl (200 × 10−3 m) and 15 × 10−3 m of [EMIM][OAc] results in more than 96.4% yield of lipid. The exchange of inorganic and organic ions in combined treatment forces the microbial cells to accumulate more amounts of lipid, which may form a lipid‐emulsion layer to protect the cell from osmosis. It is interestingly observed that the stress cells shift the flux to accumulate a significantly improved percentage of SFA, which could be provided better protection cover due to its expanded structure, less reactive characteristics, and completely insoluble nature in ionic‐aqueous solvent.

Practical applications: Oleaginous yeast is multiplied in a very limited space, and easily scalable for sustainable production of lipid to meet its commercial demand. This novel approach for enhancing the yield of lipid with the application of synergistic stress in between NaCl and the green solvent (ionic liquid) is being reported for the first time. This lipid has potential alternative applications as cocoa‐butter.
Tunisian Pistacia atlantica Desf. Extraction Process: Impact on Chemical and Nutritional Characteristics
Authors: Salhi Manel , Gharsallaoui Mariem , Gabsi Slimane
Published: August 2021

Plant materials have been used in different fields such as therapeutics, cosmetics, and energy for ages. Several studies have investigated seeds, whether common or not, in order to ensure a better valuation of natural resources. Among these, Pistacia atlantica Desf. has been the subject of several works on its characterization and valorization. Among the current trends in sustainable development and environmental protection, valorizing natural wild plants via green chemistry has become prevalent. One of these plants, Pistacia atlantica Desf., is a tree that grows in arid and semi‐arid areas, notably in Tunisia, and produces seeds rich in oil. In this study extracting the oil from its seeds is tried by three methods (supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2), pressure, and hexane), and the efficiency of these extraction processes is compared in order to obtain the best yield and maximize its valorization in a variety of industrial fields. The obtained oil is found to be rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, namely linoleic and oleic acids, with a similar acidic composition among all extraction methods. The tocopherol composition of the oil is determined using high performance liquid chromatography. The total polyphenol content is determined using the Folin‐Ciocalteu colorimetric analysis method. The results show that the seed oil of Pistacia atlantica Desf. extracted by supercritical CO2 gives the highest extraction yield (25%) and the lowest acidity and peroxide values with a high degree of oxidation at 232 and 270 nm. This method also gives the highest content of alpha, gamma, and delta tocopherol as well as total phenolic content compared to the other extraction methods. The composition of chlorophylls and carotenes in the seed oil of Pistacia atlantica Desf. is determined. Besides, the analysis of the sterol composition reveals that β‐sitosterol is still prevailing. Among all the tested extracts, the supercritical CO2 extract demonstrates the best antioxidant performance against the tested radicals. The oil extracted by supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) is of a higher quality compared to that extracted by pressure and by hexane.

Practical applications: The Pistacia atlantica Desf. oil exhibits interesting physicochemical and biological characteristics. The type of extraction affects the quality of the major and minor components in the seeds. However, the supercritical CO2 method produces a better oil quality with the presence of antioxidants such as tocopherols and polyphenols. In fact, it is found that the oil extracted by the three methods has an important sterolic profile with the predominance of β‐sitosterol. According to the classification of vegetable oils, unsaturated fatty acids of atlas pistachio oil can be categorized as oleo linoleic oil, which enhances its nutritional value. Having these characteristics, the use of this oil can be considered in agrifood products.
Ziziphi spinosaeSemen Oil Enhance the Oxidative Stability of Soybean Oil under Frying Conditions
Authors: Hou Juncai , Zhou Xuan , Yu Tong , Sop Ri Tong , Ma Jiage , Wang Mingli , Wu Qinrou , Zheng Xiaoyu , Jiang Zhanmei
Published: August 2021

The objective of this study is to improve the oxidative stability of soybean oil by usingZiziphi spinosaesemen oil (ZSSO). In the present study, the oxidative stability, fatty acid composition, tocopherol, and phenolic changes of soybean oil without additives and soybean oil mixed with 5% ZSSO are evaluated during frying at 180 ℃ for 18 h. Tert‐butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) and vitamin E (VE) as common antioxidants are incorporated into soybean oil for comparison. According to the results of oxidative stability assays of conjugated diene value, thiobarbituric acid value, acid values, and total polar compounds, the incorporation of ZSSO significantly restrain the lipid oxidation of soybean oil. After 18 h of frying, the soybean oil samples with ZSSO has more polyunsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, and DPPH radical scavenging capacity, and less trans fatty acids, compared with TBHQ and VE. In addition, ZSSO‐containing soybean oil maintains a high content of phenols during the frying period, which is correlated with the increase in oxidative stability. Therefore, replacing part of soybean oil with ZSSO can effectively reinforce the performance of soybean oil under frying conditions.
Preparation of Lactams from Cyclic Anhydrides via N‐Carboxyanhydride Intermediates
Authors: Smith Simon N. , Connon Stephen J.
Published: August 2021

The ring contraction‐lactamisation of anhydrides upon reaction with trimethylsilylazide in the presence of an amine catalyst has been studied. Under controlled conditions, 5,‐ 6‐ and 8‐membered ring lactams can be generated from cyclic anhydrides in an operationally simple procedure. In the case of γ‐lactams, the methodology allows for the synthesis of challenging systems incompatible with the usual disconnection involving an amine and an activated carbonyl group. The synthesis of simple larger ring lactams is hampered by inaccessible monomeric cyclic anhydride precursors ‐ a problem which can be circumvented through rigidification. Succinic anhydrides make N‐carboxyanhydrides of use in polymer chemistry and as β‐peptide precursors.
Motor performance and back pain in children and adolescents: A systematic review
Authors: Noll Matias , Kjaer Per , Mendonça Carolina Rodriguess , Wedderkopp Niels
Published: August 2021

Background and Objective

Motor performance during childhood and adolescence is recognized as a relevant determinant of present and future health, but its effects on back pain (BP) remain unclear. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify the association between motor performance and BP in children and adolescents.

Databases and Data Treatment

A literature search was performed in the MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, SPORTDiscus and CINAHL databases. We included cross‐sectional, cohort, case‐control and controlled clinical trials (data from control groups). The inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) participants aged 6–19 years; (b) assessment motor performance components; (c) assessment of BP and (d) reported measures of association. The risk of bias was assessed by the Downs and Black instrument and the quality of evidence by the grading of recommendations, assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE).

Results

A total of 2360 articles were identified, 25 of which were included in our systematic review. Of the 25 studies, 19 were evaluated as having a low risk of bias. GRADE indicated that 20 studies presented low or very low quality. Most of the studies evaluated flexibility (n = 16), muscle endurance (n = 18) and muscle strength (n = 9). Aerobic capacity, balance and speed were also examined in some studies (n < 5). Overall, motor performance (flexibility, muscle endurance, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, balance and speed) was not associated with BP. Most of the results were inconsistent because of the lack of studies, risk of bias and low quality of evidence. Only trunk extensor muscle endurance was associated with decreased BP with moderate quality of the supporting evidence. Prospective studies with a low risk of bias are warranted to further clarify this relationship in childhood and adolescence and findings may support more targeted and effective health promotion interventions.

Significance

This systematic review shows that motor performance (flexibility, muscle endurance, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, balance and speed) was not associated with BP in children and adolescents. Most of the results were inconsistent because of the lack of studies, risk of bias and low quality of evidence. Only trunk extensor muscle endurance was associated with decreased BP with moderate quality of supporting evidence.
FRET in Orthogonal, Increasingly Strain‐Rigidified Systems
Authors: Langhals Heinz , Dietl Christian , Mayer Peter
Published: August 2021

The influence of the geometry factor κ on the efficiency of energy transfer by FRET (Förster resonance energy transfer) was studied by means of dyads of benzoperylene and perylene interlinked by a spacer of the cage bicyclo‐[2.2.2]octane. The electronic transition moments were arranged orthogonally for extinguishing the energy transfer according to Förster's theory. In contrast to the theory energy transfer proceeded unrestrictedly attributed to molecular vibrations. A further rigidifying of the spacer by means of annellation with benzo groups until the very rigid triptycene as a spacer could not hinder the energy transfer so that general strongly coupled molecular framework vibrations seem to be dominant in the energy transfer whereas molecular flexibility seems to be of minor importance. Application such as molecular mirrors are discussed.
Filter‐free self‐power CdSe/Sb2(S1−x,Sex)3 nearinfrared narrowband detection and imaging
Authors: Li Kanghua , Lu Yue , Yang Xuke , Fu Liuchong , He Jungang , Lin Xuetian , Zheng Jiajia , Lu Shuaicheng , Chen Chao , Tang Jiang
Published: August 2021

Accurate and clear bioimaging is crucial in the field of medical diagnosis. High‐quality bioimaging requires to avoid the effects of ambient light as well as the absorption of biological tissues. Nearinfrared (NIR) narrowband detectors located at wavelength from 650 to 900 nm can meet these requirements; thus, they are the potential solution. In this work, we construct a filter‐free and self‐power NIR narrowband photodetector based on the structure of n‐CdSe/p‐Sb2(S1‐x,Sex)3 heterojunction, and achieve a narrow spectral response at 735 nm with a full width at half‐maximum of 35.3 nm in the detector. Further, the imaging characteristics of the NIR narrowband detector are explored, verifying the ability to narrowband detection and imaging. This filter‐free and self‐power NIR narrowband detector shows considerable promise in real‐life applications.

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Synergic effects of ultrasound and laser therapies on mesentery for management of obesity and diabetes in rats
Authors: Paolillo Fernanda Rossi , Campos Thays Yara Teófilo Borges , Alvarez Carolina , Sene‐Fiorese Marcela , Bagnato Vanderlei Salvador , de Oliveira Duarte Ana Cláudia Garcia , Parizotto Nivaldo Antonio
Published: August 2021

Nowadays, the mesentery as a new organ was discovered. Mesenteric events may play an important role in the pathophysiology of several diseases. The aim of our study was investigate the synergic effects of ultrasound (US) and laser therapies on mesentery in obese‐hyperglycemic rats. The 25 male Wistar rats were randomized into five groups. Obese nondiabetic (OND) group: obese rats without diabetes and no treatment conditions; SHAM group: obese‐hyperglycemic rats treated with placebo; US group: obese‐hyperglycemic rats treated with US; LASER group: obese‐hyperglycemic rats treated with laser and; US+LASER group: obese‐hyperglycemic rats treated with US plus laser. An animal model of type 2 diabetes based on a hyperlipidemic diet combined with a low dose of streptozotocin was used in this study. Body mass and biochemical measurements were performed. GOT and GPT level showed a significant reduction in the treated groups than SHAM. The total cholesterol, triglycerides and very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels showed significantly lower values for the US+LASER group. There was also reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases evidenced by Castelli index in the treated groups than SHAM. This study showed that the US and laser treatment on mesentery resulted to an improvement in biochemical measurements of the obese‐hyperglycemic rats, especially the total cholesterol, triglycerides and VLDL levels.
Combined procalcitonin and hemogram parameters contribute to early differential diagnosis of Gram‐negative/Gram‐positive bloodstream infections
Authors: Gao Qiqing , Li Zhuohong , Mo Xichao , Wu Yihua , Zhou Hao , Peng Jie
Published: August 2021

Background

Hemogram parameters and procalcitonin (PCT) play auxiliary roles in the diagnosis and outcome of sepsis. However, it is not clear whether these indicators can quickly distinguish bacterial classification or guide the choice of empirical antibiotics.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 381 patients with bloodstream infections (BSI), divided into Gram‐positive bloodstream infections (GP‐BSI) and Gram‐negative bloodstream infections (GN‐BSI). Demographic parameters, hemogram parameters, and PCT were recorded and compared between the two groups.

Results

The mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and PCT in the GN‐BSI group were significantly higher than those in the GP‐BSI group, while the platelet count (PLT), plateletcrit, platelet count‐to‐white blood cell count ratio (PWR), platelet count‐to‐neutrophil count ratio (PNR), platelet count‐to‐PCT ratio (PLT/PCT), and mean platelet volume‐to‐PCT ratio (MPV/PCT) were significantly lower in the GN‐BSI group. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed that the independent predictors of GN‐BSI were MPV, PWR, and PCT. The areas under the curve (AUC) for this prediction model was 0.79, with sensitivity =0.75 and specificity =0.71.

Conclusions

There were significant differences in terms of PCT, platelet parameters, and platelet‐related index‐PCT ratio between GN‐BSI and GP‐BSI. Combined PCT and hemogram parameters are more conducive to the early differential diagnosis of bacterial classification of BSI.
Left bundle branch area pacing: Electrocardiographic features
Authors: Das Asit , Chatterjeet Das Suman , Mandal Aniruddha
Published: August 2021

Background

Left bundle branch (LBB) area pacing emerged as a promising alternative to His bundle (HB) pacing in difficult cases of physiological pacing and failed cases of cardiac resynchronization. So, it is important to understand ECG features of LBB area pacing in various subsets of patients.

Objective

We wanted to find out different morphological patterns and characteristic ECG features of LBB area pacing.

Method

Medtronic 3830 pacing lead was used to pierce the interventricular septum 1‐2 cm distal towards the RV cavity to a previously placed electrophysiology catheter at distal HB region to reach the LBB area in the right anterior oblique (RAO) 30 degree projection. We observed paced QRS morphology in lead V1 and paced QRS duration.

Results

We have analyzed ECG features of 60 patients who had undergone LBB area pacing and 60 patients with RV apical pacing. LBB area pacing resulted in narrower‐paced QRS complex than conventional RV apical pacing. In patients with baseline LBBB QRS shortening from LBB area pacing was more in comparison to patients with RBBB (34.45 ± 8.07 ms vs 19.78 ± 10.24 ms, P value .004). Paced QRS morphological pattern in lead V1 was most commonly qR pattern followed by Qr pattern.

Conclusions

LBB area pacing results in narrower‐paced QRS duration than RV apical pacing. The morphological pattern is most commonly a qR or Qr pattern in lead V1. Patients with baseline RBBB showed lesser paced QRS shortening in comparison to patients with baseline LBBB.
Simultaneous determination of compound‐specific isotopic compositions of acyclic isoprenoids and n‐alkanes in light crude oil
Authors: Tian Yankuan , Zhan Zhao‐Wen , Yu Shuang
Published: August 2021

Stable carbon and hydrogen isotope ratios of individual n‐alkanes and acyclic isoprenoids are important tools in petroleum geochemistry. However, the analysis requires baseline separation and peak profiles using gas chromatography–isotope ratio mass spectrometry to obtain accurate compound‐specific isotope data. Time‐consuming isolation or purification is typically conducted to separate the compounds to avoid co‐elution with other compounds or matrices in crude oils. We developed a simple gas chromatography separation method to simultaneously measure the compound‐specific carbon or hydrogen isotope compositions of n‐alkanes and acyclic isoprenoids. It was achieved by direct injection of the whole crude condensate and light oil or the saturated fractions of different types of crude oils using a 60 m DB‐17ms column. This method simplifies the pre‐treatment of compound‐specific isotope analysis, saves manpower and time, and reduces the use of organic solvents to be more environmentally friendly.
Titanium dioxide‐functionalized dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles for highly selective isolation of phosphoproteins
Authors: Qiao Min , Guo Peng‐Fei , Zhang Chun‐Yu , Sun Xiao‐Yan , Chen Ming‐Li , Wang Jian‐Hua
Published: August 2021

Selective isolation of phosphoproteins is of great significance in biological applications. Herein, titanium dioxide‐functionalized dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles are prepared via a post‐grafting method for selective capture of phosphoproteins. The fabricated nanoparticles possess a unique central‐radial pore structure with a surface area of 666.66 m2/g and a pore size of 22.2 nm. The high‐binding affinity of TiO2 with the phosphate groups facilitates the selective adsorption of phosphoproteins. Moreover, the open central‐radial pore structure endows the dendritic mesoporous nanoparticles with better adsorption performance toward phosphoproteins with respect to the commercial titanium dioxide nanoparticles and titanium dioxide‐functionalized conventional mesoporous silica nanoparticles by providing more accessible affinity sites. At pH 2, an adsorption capacity of 157.2 mg/g is derived for β‐casein. The feasibility of the as‐prepared dendritic material in real biological sample assay is demonstrated by the selective isolation of phosphoproteins from defatted milk, as illustrated by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis assay.
A High–Performance Flexible Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor Features an Integrated Design of Conductive Fabric Electrode and Polyurethane Sponge
Authors: Cheng Haonan , Zhang Ningyi , Yin Yunjie , Wang Chaoxia
Published: August 2021

Due to its porous structure and good elasticity, conductive polyurethane (PU) sponge is used as the main substrate of the flexible piezoresistive pressure sensor. The effective combination of conductive PU sponge and electrode material is the foundation for the pressure sensor, but it needs to be bonded by expensive conductive silver paste or copper paste. In addition, the common electrode materials weaken the flexibility of the PU sponge pressure sensors because of their rigidity. Herein, PU sponge and polyester (PET) fabric are first bonded to produce (PET‐PU) composite, which is then impregnated with graphene oxide (GO). The obtained reduced graphene oxide(rGO)@PET fabric and rGO@PU are used as electrode and piezoresistive material, respectively. Then rGO@(PET‐PU) composite is assembled into a pressure sensor only by using wire connections in the rGO@PET fabric. Benefiting from excellent piezoresistive behavior, rGO@(PET‐TPU) pressure sensor displays high sensitivity (0.255 kPa−1 at below 2.6 kPa), wide detection limit (≈0–85.0%), and long durability (over 1800 cycles). Besides, the pressure sensor demonstrates good performance in monitoring human activities, including finger bending, clicking keyboard, breathing, elbow bending, and walking posture, thus providing a promising material for human activity monitoring.
How scarcity and thinking styles boost referral effectiveness
Authors: Ang Dionysius , Gerrath Maximilian H. E. E. , Liu Yeyi
Published: August 2021

Referral reward programs (RRPs) are a widely used tool to stimulate word‐of‐mouth (WOM). However, marketers still face a dilemma—while incentivization encourages senders to make referrals, recipients often react negatively towards such incentives. We propose a solution—referral scarcity—to improve referral effectiveness depending on thinking style. Three experiments show that limiting the number of referral rewards makes holistic‐thinking recipients feel more special, boosting their referral acceptance and RRP evaluations. We replicate these effects across various contexts and in the relationship norm most common for referrals—exchange norm. Our findings theoretically contribute to the research on incentivized WOM, scarcity appeals, and thinking styles. We also demonstrate how marketers can adopt sender‐benefiting referral rewards to maximize its dissemination and acceptance while identifying the consumer segment where it would be most effective.
Local Values and Data Empower Culturally Guided Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management of the Wuikinuxv Bear–Salmon–Human System
Authors: Adams Megan S. , Connors Brendan , Levi Taal , Shaw Danielle , Walkus Jennifer , Rogers Scott , Darimont Chris
Published: August 2021

Despite numerous examples of ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) addressing tradeoffs between ecological and commercial fishery interests, local social and cultural concerns are less frequently considered. We illustrate how Indigenous fishery harvest goals and data from locally driven wildlife research can inform EBFM, guided by cultural values of respect for and reciprocity with wildlife. Grizzly bears Ursus arctos horribilis hold particular importance for the Wuikinuxv First Nation in Rivers Inlet, British Columbia, where people and bears have coexisted as consumers of Sockeye Salmon Oncorhynchus nerka for millennia. The region’s valuable commercial fishery, active since the late 1800s, has been closed since the Sockeye Salmon population collapsed in the mid-1990s, but the Wuikinuxv maintain a modest food, social, and ceremonial (FSC) harvest. To address questions about balancing the needs of fishers and ecosystem recipients, we quantified tradeoffs between long-term maximum sustainable fishery yield and ecosystem benefits (for which bear density served as a proxy). We fitted age-structured state-space spawner–recruitment models and estimated relationships among spawner abundance, long-term fishery yields, and relative bear densities in time periods before and after the population collapse. We found that predicted maximum postcollapse bear density was 74% of maximum precollapse densities. We estimated a 94% decline in Sockeye Salmon equilibrium population size (from ˜3,115,000 to 200,000), resulting in a commensurate decline in maximum sustainable fishery yield. Despite this, we showed that Wuikinuxv FSC harvest goals are compatible with an EBFM target that seeks also to sustain relatively high bear densities, whereby relative fishery yield and bear density are reduced about 10% from their respective maxima, assuming that current Sockeye Salmon productivity and carrying capacity remain similar for the foreseeable future, although these estimates are highly uncertain. Collectively, our findings illustrate how EBFM can apply interdisciplinary approaches that draw not only on fisheries ecology but also local values to design sustainable harvest strategies for diverse beneficiaries.
Structural Fractal Analysis of the Active Site of Acetylcholinesterase in Complexes with Huperzine A, Galantamine, and Donepezil
Authors: Grigorev Veniamin Y. , Rasdolsky Alexander N. , Grigoreva Ludmila D. , Tinkov Oleg V.
Published: August 2021

The fractal dimension (D) of the active site of hAChE in the unliganded state and as part of complexes with hyperzine A, galantamine, and donepezil is calculated using molecular interatomic‐distance histograms. Fractal matrices of structural changes (FMSCs) are formed by pairwise comparison of the values of D and by revealing the significance of their differences. FMSCs are found to be used to quantitatively estimate the changes in the structures of the molecules in various states. When analyzing FMSCs, we found that the most significant structural changes are related to the Glu202 amino acid residue. No structural perturbations are revealed in the case of Trp86, Gly122, Ala204, Phe338, Tyr341, Gly448, and Ile451.
Influence of Ice Angler Culling Practices on Bluegill Physiological Stress Responses and Mortality
Authors: Grausgruber Stephen J. , Grausgruber Emily E. , Weber Michael J.
Published: August 2021

Decreasing bag limits is a management mechanism for enhancing size structure of Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus. However, restrictive bag limits can promote culling, where an angler returns a live fish to the water in exchange for another. Little is known about the effect of culling on ice-angled fishes. Our objective was to compare the effects of Bluegill confinement methods (reference, ice well, and bucket) and holding durations (0, 1, 2, or 5 h) on changes in water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, carbon dioxide, and water temperature) and Bluegill stress physiology (blood glucose and plasma cortisol), reflex responses (reflex action mortality predictor [RAMP] scores), and mortality while ice angling. In February 2018, 182 Bluegills were angled through the ice and randomly assigned a confinement method and holding duration. Bluegill blood glucose levels were higher in both confinement methods than reference fish at 2-h and 5-h holding durations. Bluegills had higher blood glucose levels in buckets than ice wells at 1 and 2 h, but they had higher blood glucose levels in ice wells at 5 h. Water temperature was warmer in buckets than ice wells at all holding durations, while ice wells were cooler than ambient lake temperature. Bucket pH was higher than the lake at 2 h, and ice well pH was higher than the lake at 1 and 2 h. Bluegill RAMP scores were similar across all holding durations and confinement methods, but they were elevated in individuals held for the 24-h mortality assessment. Two Bluegill mortalities occurred for fish held in ice wells. Our results suggest that confinement method and holding duration while ice angling can result in altered Bluegill blood glucose concentrations, water temperatures, and pH concentrations but that culling while ice angling might not result in mortality. Consequently, culling practices may be compatible with and not negate the intended benefits of reduced Bluegill bag limits.
Preparing for the NASH epidemic: A call to action
Authors: Kanwal Fasiha , Shubrook Jay H. , Younossi Zobair , Natarajan Yamini , Bugianesi Elisabetta , Rinella Mary E. , Harrison Stephen A. , Mantzoros Christos , Pfotenhauer Kim , Klein Samuel , Eckel Robert H. , Kruger Davida , El‐Serag Hashem , Cusi Kenneth
Published: August 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are common conditions with a rising burden. Yet there are significant management gaps between clinical guidelines and practice in patients with NAFLD and NASH. Further, there is no single global guiding strategy for the management of NAFLD and NASH. The American Gastroenterological Association, in collaboration with 7 professional associations, convened an international conference comprising 32 experts in gastroenterology, hepatology, endocrinology, and primary care providers from the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Conference content was informed by the results of a national NASH Needs Assessment Survey. The participants reviewed and discussed published literature on global burden, screening, risk stratification, diagnosis, and management of individuals with NAFLD, including those with NASH. Participants identified promising approaches for clinical practice and prepared a comprehensive, unified strategy for primary care providers and relevant specialists encompassing the full spectrum of NAFLD/NASH care. They also identified specific high‐yield targets for clinical research and called for a unified, international public health response to NAFLD and NASH.
Cinacalcet and gastrointestinal bleeding risk in patients receiving hemodialysis
Authors: Liu Jiannong , Guo Haifeng , Lin Tzu‐Chieh , Wetmore James B. , Bradbury Brian D. , Gilbertson David T. , Nieman Kimberly , Peng Yi , Sprafka J. Michael , Dluzniewski Paul J.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is common among dialysis patients, and calcimimetics are a mainstay of treatment. This study assessed whether cinacalcet use is associated with gastrointestinal bleeding in a large hemodialysis cohort.

Methods

A linked database of clinical records and medical claims for patients receiving hemodialysis in a large dialysis organization, 2007–2010, was used. A nested case–control study was performed among patients aged ≥18 years who had received hemodialysis for ≥90 days, had Medicare Parts A, B, and D coverage for ≥1 year, and had clinical evidence of SHPT (parathyroid hormone >300 pg/mL). Cases were those who experienced death or hospitalization caused by gastrointestinal bleeding. Each case was matched to up to four controls. Exposure was measured by any cinacalcet use, current use, past use, cumulative exposure days, and cumulative dosage. Conditional logistic models were used to assess the association.

Results

Of 48 437 patients included, 2570 experienced gastrointestinal bleeding events (2498 non‐fatal, 72 fatal), and 2465 (2397 non‐fatal, 68 fatal) were matched to 9500 controls; 17.2% of cases and 15.8% of controls had cinacalcet exposure and 11.1% of both cases and controls had current use. The adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) of gastrointestinal bleeding for any use, current use, and past use of cinacalcet were 1.04 (0.91–1.19), 0.97 (0.83–1.13), and 1.22 (0.99–1.50), respectively, with no use as the reference.

Conclusion

The results do not suggest an elevated risk of gastrointestinal bleeding resulting in hospitalization or death for hemodialysis patients exposed to cinacalcet.
Adjustable ring shaping for laser welding applications
Authors: Brodsky Alexander , Kaplan Natan
Published: August 2021

High laser welding speed can be achieved by using a ring and central spot laser illumination profile, with an adjustable ratio of the ring energy to the spot enabling optimization of the process. We present a novel and simple diffractive‐based concept to achieve such adjustable shaping for standard fiber lasers. The module is rotation‐adjustable between 100 % energy in the central spot to no energy in the central spot, can work with both single‐mode and multimode lasers, is highly compact (less than 20 mm long) and has the high LDT of passive diffractive components. This concept obviates the need for special ring‐type fiber lasers, enabling simpler design of the welding laser head.
Protein oligomer structure prediction using GALAXY in CASP14
Authors: Park Taeyong , Woo Hyeonuk , Yang Jinsol , Kwon Sohee , Won Jonghun , Seok Chaok
Published: August 2021

Proteins perform their functions by interacting with other biomolecules. For these interactions, proteins often form homo‐ or hetero‐oligomers as well. Thus, oligomer protein structures provide important clues regarding the biological roles of proteins. To this end, computational prediction of oligomer structures may be a useful tool in the absence of experimentally resolved structures. Here, we describe our server and human‐expert methods used to predict oligomer structures in the CASP14 experiment. Examples are provided for cases in which manual domain‐splitting led to improved oligomeric domain structures by ab initio docking, automated oligomer structure refinement led to improved subunit orientation and terminal structure, and manual oligomer modeling utilizing literature information generated a reasonable oligomer model. We also discussed the results of post‐prediction docking calculations with AlphaFold2 monomers as input in comparison to our blind prediction results. Overall, ab initio docking of AlphaFold2 models did not lead to better oligomer structure prediction, which may be attributed to the interfacial structural difference between the AlphaFold2 monomer structures and the crystal oligomer structures. This result poses a next‐stage challenge in oligomer structure prediction after the success of AlphaFold2. For successful protein assembly structure prediction, a different approach that exploits further evolutionary information on the interface and/or flexible docking taking the interfacial conformational flexibilities of subunit structures into account is needed.
High‐Temperature Electrical Conduction Mechanisms in Donor‐Doped Bi4Ti3O12 Aurivillius Piezoceramics: Role of Oxygen Vacancies
Authors: Xie Xinchun , Zhou Zhiyong , Liang Ruihong , Dong Xianlin
Published: August 2021

Donor doping has always been the most simple, effective, and most common method to exploit outstanding performance of Bi4Ti3O12 (BIT) high‐temperature piezoceramics. Among various property parameters, the high‐temperature electrical insulation characteristic is a particularly important nature, which is an important guarantee for the steady and reliable operation of BIT‐based ceramics at high temperature. But, the electrical conduction mechanisms of donor‐doped BIT ceramics at high temperature are still unclear. Herein, the high‐temperature conduction mechanisms of Bi4Ti2.98(WNb)0.01O12 (BITWN) ceramics under different atmospheres are studied systematically and its high‐temperature conduction mechanisms are revealed for the first time. It is found that the high‐temperature conducting process of BITWN ceramics presents different conduction mechanisms under different atmospheres. BITWN exhibits n‐type and ionic conduction in the Ar atmosphere, whereas it is p‐type and ionic conduction in the O2 atmosphere, which is closely related to oxygen vacancy defects. The work subverts the prior cognition that the conduction mechanism of BIT‐based ceramics simply belongs to p‐type, and more importantly, provides the theoretical foundation for how to control the working atmosphere of donor‐doped BIT ceramics to obtain excellent electrical insulation in practical application.
Control of chirality, bond flexing and anharmonicity in an electric field
Authors: Li Zi , Nie Xing , Xu Tianlv , Li Shuman , Yang Yong , Früchtl Herbert , van Mourik Tanja , Kirk Steven R. , Paterson Martin J. , Shigeta Yasuteru , Jenkins Samantha
Published: August 2021

We located “hidden” S‐character chirality in formally achiral glycine using a vector‐based interpretation of the total electronic charge density distribution. We induced the formation of stereoisomers in glycine by the application of an electric field. Control of chirality was indicated from the proportionate response to a non‐structurally distorting electric field. The bond‐flexing was determined to be a measure of bond strain, which could be a factor of three lower or higher, depending on the direction of the electric field, than in the absence of the electric field. The bond‐anharmonicity was found to be approximately independent of the electric field. We also compared the formally achiral glycine with the chiral molecules alanine and lactic acid, quantifying the preferences for the S and R stereoisomers. The proportional response of the chiral discrimination to the magnitude and direction of the applied electric field indicated use of the chirality discrimination as a molecular similarity measure.