bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Selected Macroeconomic Variables and the Financial Performance of Investment Banks in Kenya
Authors: Baariu Mungiria James , Peter Njuguna
Published: October 2021

Currently, investment banks in Kenya are facing a lot of challenges due to persistence losses. However, the available studies are inadequate to aid investment banks in overcoming these challenges in Kenya due to mixed findings, resulting in rising uncertainty on equity investments’ performance, leading to massive losses among investment banks.  This study, therefore, sought to model the relationship between inflation, GDP, interest rates, exchange rates, and financial performance of investment banks. Arbitrage pricing theory, Modern portfolio theory as well as classical economic theory (flow-oriented model) was used. A causal research design was adopted. The study found that inflation has negative significant influence on financial performance of equity investments among investment banks in Kenya. Also, GDP has positive and significant influence on financial performance of equity investments among investment banks in Kenya. Interest rate was also found to have negative and significant influence on financial performance of equity investments among investment banks in Kenya. In addition, exchange rate has negative significant influence on financial performance of equity investments among investment banks in Kenya. The study therefore recommends any investor including financial investors to methodically analyze inflation trends and understand how it affects the company’s financial performance. Investors must also be in a position to predict the future concerning inflation changes.
Clinical Applications of Aspirin as a Multi-potent Drug Beyond Cardiovascular Implications: A Proof of Concept for Anesthesiologists- A Narrative Review
Authors: Rezabakhsh Aysa , Mahmoodpoor Ata , Soleimanpour Maryam , Shahsavarinia Kavous , Soleimanpour Hassan
Published: October 2021

: To the best of our knowledge, aspirin (ASA) is known as a commonly used medication worldwide. Although the cardiovascular aspects of ASA are well-established, recently, it has been identified that ASA can yield multiple extra-cardiovascular therapeutic potencies in facing neurodegenerative disorders, various cancers, inflammatory responses, and the COVID-19 pandemic. In this review, we aimed to highlight the proven role of ASA administration in the variety of non-cardiovascular diseases, particularly in the field of anesthesiology.
Supraclavicular vs. Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus Nerve Blocks: Clinical, Pharmacological, and Anatomical Considerations
Authors: Kaye Alan D. , Allampalli Varsha , Fisher Paul , Kaye Aaron J. , Tran Aaron , Cornett Elyse M. , Imani Farnad , Edinoff Amber N. , Djalali Motlagh Soudabeh , Urman Richard D.
Published: October 2021

: Peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) have become standard of care for enhanced recovery pathways after surgery. For brachial plexus delivery of anesthesia, both supraclavicular (SC) and infraclavicular (IC) approaches have been shown to require less supplemental anesthesia, are performed more rapidly, have quicker onset time, and have lower rates of complications than other approaches (axillary, interscalene, etc.). Ultrasound-guidance is commonly utilized to improve outcomes, limit the need for deep sedation or general anesthesia, and reduce procedural complications. Given the SC and IC approaches are the most common approaches for brachial plexus blocks, the differences between the two have been critically evaluated in the present manuscript. Various studies have demonstrated slight favorability towards the IC approach from the standpoint of complications and safety. Two prospective RCTs found a higher incidence of complications in the SC approach – particularly Horner syndrome. The IC method appears to support a greater block distribution as well. Overall, both SC and IC brachial plexus nerve block approaches are the most effective and safe approaches, particularly under ultrasound-guidance. Given the success of the supraclavicular and infraclavicular blocks, these techniques are an important skill set for the anesthesiologist for intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia.
Searching for Risk Factors and Establishing Predictive Models for Severe and Critical Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Authors: Dong Qi , Li Nuoya , Yu Mengjie , Zhu Chunhui , Hu Meiying , Liu Ruiqi , Luo Li , Hong Liang , Zhang Shouhua , Tao Qiang , Chen Qiang
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Severe and critical hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) patients have an acute onset and poor prognosis. This study intended to establish an appropriate risk prediction model by analyzing the blood biochemical indicators of patients. Methods: A total of 3,204 patients with HFMD were enrolled in this study, including 2,131 mild patients, 962 severe patients, and 111 critical patients. We first analyzed the data of each group through multivariate statistics based on SIMCA-P and screened out the variables that had important contributions to the discrimination of each group. Furthermore, the risk factors and predictors were screened out by comparison with the results of univariate statistical analysis. Finally, binary logistic regression analysis was used to establish a suitable prediction model. Results: With the aggravation of HFMD patients' conditions, the blood content and risk warning ability of seven indicators of SP, DP, NEUT%, TP, GLB, RBP, and Glu were significantly increased. We found for the first time that the more severe the HFMD patients, the lower the levels of Chr, %MRETIC, and %HRETIC in their blood. The average prediction accuracy of the established models for Mild/Severe, Severe/Critical, and Severe/Critical was 82.89, 96.16, and 89.37%, respectively, and the AUROC was 0.8722 (95%CI, 0.8583 - 0.8861), 0.9499 (95%CI, 0.9339 - 0.9659), and 0.7913 (95% CI, 0.7471 - 0.8356), respectively. Conclusions: Multivariate statistical analysis based on SIMCA-P could be used to analyze the clinical data of HFMD patients. Besides, SP, DP, NEUT%, TP, GLB, RBP, and Glu could be used as risk factors for severe and critical HFMD patients. The abnormal changes of Chr, %MRETIC, and %HRETIC reflected the possible damage to bone marrow hematopoietic function in HFMD patients. The predictive model established by us could be used for the differential diagnosis of Mild/Severe, Mild/Critical, and Severe/Critical.
Gallium-68-Labeled Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen (68Ga-PSMA) Uptake in Renal Cell Carcinoma and Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Doroudinia Abtin , Mehrian Payam , Forghani Maedeh
Published: October 2021

: Gallium-68-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (68Ga-PSMA), as a relatively new positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer, can be used to evaluate tumors other than prostate cancer, including renal cell carcinoma and probably non-small cell lung cancer, as discussed in our case. We present the case of a 65-year-old man with a history of lung adenocarcinoma diagnosed in 2015 and a subsequent diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma in 2018, treated with a right lower lobectomy and a left partial nephrectomy, respectively. Both conditions were evaluated using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/computed tomography (CT) scan before surgery. A rise in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was detected in the follow-up in September 2020, and the patient was referred for a 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT scan following pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT scan demonstrated avid lesions in both lung and kidney surgical beds. The 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT scan can be potentially used in patients with recurrent renal cell carcinoma to detect metastasis. This modality may also detect non-small cell lung cancer lesions; however, further investigation is needed.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of Women Referring to Kashan and Aran-O-Bidgol Comprehensive Health Centers Toward Symptoms and Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in 2020
Authors: Khani Mohammadreza , Mohammadzadeh Mahdiyeh , Yadegarfar Ghasem
Published: October 2021

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers in women. Among factors reducing BC mortality, referring to health centers for early diagnosis is important. The level of knowledge, attitude, and performance of women toward BC risk factors has a major contribution in deciding to refer to a health center for early diagnosis. Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and performance of women referring to Kashan and Aran-O-Bidgol comprehensive health centers toward breast cancer risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 820 women aged 30 years and above in 2020 using a standard questionnaire, including sections of sociodemographic and existence risk factors, 20 items for women's awareness of the signs and symptoms of BC, risk factors, and breast self-examination, 10 items for attitude measurement, and 5 items for performance measurement. Data analysis was administered by SPSS using relative frequency and Chi-square tests. Results: Data of 776 (94.6%) participants were included in the analysis. The majority of participants had a moderate level of knowledge (66.4%) and attitude (76.6%) towards BC. For performance, about 44% of the participants had no breast self-examination during the last year. The results showed a significant association between marital status and education level with knowledge and attitude; employment with knowledge; age and income with attitude and performance (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Given the low level of knowledge, attitude, and performance of old aged and low educated women, as well as the increased risk of the disease in the elderly, it is necessary to provide educational interventions to this high-risk group.
Relationship Between Antibiotic Resistance Patterns and O-Serogroups in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Iraqi Patients
Authors: Mohammed Eman Jassim , Allami Mohammed , Sharifmoghadam Mohammad Reza , Bahreini Masoumeh
Published: October 2021

Background: The O-antigen is one of the uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) virulence factors used as a biomarker to classify E. coli strains. Objectives: In this study, the relationship between antibiotic resistance patterns and O-serogroups was investigated in UPEC strains isolated from patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) in southern Iraq. Methods: A total of 100 UPEC isolates from the urine specimens of patients with UTIs within the age range of 4 months to 78 years in various southern Iraqi hospitals were collected (May 2017 to January 2018) and confirmed using biochemical tests (e.g., Analytical Profile Index 20E). Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using the disk diffusion method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The multiple polymerase chain reaction technique was applied to investigate the prevalence of O-serogroups. Results: The most frequent serogroups in the E. coli isolates were O8 (27.7%) and O25 (24.4%); however, serogroup O83 was not observed in the samples. Serogroups O75, O6, O16, and O18 had the lowest frequency (1.1%) among the examined isolates. Furthermore, 10% of the isolates did not belong to any of the examined serogroups. The phenotypic tests showed that the highest and the lowest resistance belonged to piperacillin (92%) and imipenem (5%), respectively. Serogroups O4 and O21 showed the highest drug resistance; nevertheless, serogroups O75, O18, and O1 showed the lowest drug resistance. Additionally, 94% of the isolates were resistant to three or more classes of antibiotics. Conclusions: According to the results, UPEC isolates showed high resistance to common antibiotics; however, they were sensitive to imipenem and amikacin. Serogroups O8 and O25 were the most common among UPEC isolates. Moreover, O4 and O21 showed the highest drug resistance. There was a direct relationship between antimicrobial resistance and O-serogroups in UPEC isolates.
Fennell's Promising Young Woman and Furious Women in Film
Authors: York Caitlin A. ,   Society for the Philosophic Study of the Contemporary Visual Arts
Published: October 2021

Emerald Fennell’s debut feature Promising Young Woman (2020) incisively examines sexual assault, misogyny, and the culture of complicity that continues to perpetuate `violence against women. This article will establish Fennell’s aptitude as a filmmaker in condemning the pervasive forces of patriarchal social order in harmony with Kate Manne’s account of structural misogyny analyzed in Down Girl (2017) and Entitled (2020). Fennell’s subversion of genre standards demonstrates how the actions of individuals, separate from the perpetrator, lead to additional acts of harm, and addresses the ever-present reality of male violence which the feminist-hero is, ultimately, unable to surmount. Despite arguments that Promising Young Woman has not met the expectations for change the me-too movement inspired, Fennell challenges conventions to expose misogyny and male violence asking that future feminist filmgoers consider a new way forward.
Ugi Adducts of Isatin as Promising Antiproliferative Agents with Druglike Properties
Authors: Brandão Pedro , Puerta Adrián , Padrón José M. , Kuznetsov Maxim L. , Burke Anthony J. , Pineiro Marta
Published: November 2021

Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) are a valuable tool for the sustainable synthesis of new molecules in a fast, effective and eco‐friendly manner, leading to the generation of structurally diverse libraries. Their application in synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry, in combination with privileged scaffolds, is gaining momentum in recent years. The Ugi reaction is one of the most widely used MCRs in medicinal chemistry, and it is even used for the synthesis of several active pharmaceutical ingredients. Isatin, known for its biological activities and synthetic versatility, has been vastly used in several MCRs, however it was rarely used in combination with the Ugi reaction. Herein we report the first library of isatin‐based Ugi 4 component reaction (U4CR) derivatives. Reaction optimization and scope were thoroughly explored, as well as mechanistic insights were obtained using DFT calculations. The resulting library was evaluated in what concerns its druglike properties, pharmacokinetic profile assessment in silico and antiproliferative activity in vitro, with several compounds bearing interesting druglike properties. Biological screening against six tumor cell lines, showed that the majority of the compounds display antiproliferative activity in the low and sub‐micromolar range, with the achievement of nanomolar activity (0.1 nM, 6.5 nM and 5.4 nM against HBL‐100, HeLa and WiDr, respectively) for the more active compound.
Nickel‐catalyzed α‐alkylation of ketones with benzyl alcohols
Authors: Wu Di , Wang Yubin , Li Min , Shi Lei , Liu Jichang , Liu Ning
Published: November 2021

We reported an efficient method for α‐alkylation of ketones with benzyl alcohols using the pyridine‐bridged pincer‐type N‐heterocyclic carbenes nickel complexes as catalysts. A wide range of ketones and benzyl alcohols were efficiently converted into various alkylated products in moderate to high yields. In addition, these nickel complexes were also successfully applied for the synthesis of a wide range of quinoline derivatives.
Design of a global discrete‐time sliding mode control scheme for a class of nonlinear systems with state delays and uncertainties
Authors: Sarvi Amir , Mobayen Saleh , Fekih Afef , Mohammadi Shahram , Asad Jihad H.
Published: November 2021

This paper proposes a discrete‐time sliding mode control design for a class of discrete‐time dynamic systems with time delays, parameter uncertainties, and external disturbances. The robust design implements an adaptive discrete‐time reaching law in order to reduce the effect of the chattering phenomena and improve system robustness. It also considers a lumped disturbance function for the unknown parameters and time‐delayed terms in order to estimate both at the same time. Additionally, the proposed sliding function ensures that the states of the control system are put on the switching surface right from the beginning, thus eliminating the reaching phase. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme was assessed using the longitudinal and lateral dynamics of an Osprey plane model. The obtained results indicated that the proposed approach guarantees system stability and ensures excellent tracking performance in the simultaneous presence of time delays, parameter uncertainties, and external disturbances.
When are entrepreneurs more environmentally oriented? An analysis of stakeholders' pressures at different stages of evolution of the venture
Authors: Bernal Pilar , Domínguez Beatriz , Montero Javier
Published: November 2021

Entrepreneurs are subjected to increased institutional pressures that encourage them to include environmental issues in their overall business objectives. Despite this, entrepreneurs do not always place the same importance on environmental issues in the overall objectives, but some are more environmentally oriented than others. We contend that these differences are explained by two factors: the stage of evolution of the venture and the intensity of coercive and normative environmental pressures on entrepreneurs. Using a sample of 9781 entrepreneurs from 27 countries, our research shows that entrepreneurs are more environmentally oriented (1) in early stages of evolution, (2) in countries with high coercive pressures, and (3) in countries with high normative pressures. Additionally, our results indicate that the differences in the environmental orientation in the early and late stages are reduced in countries with high normative pressures and that these differences are not influenced by the intensity of coercive pressures.
Inhibition of the miR‐193b‐3p protects against oxidized low‐density lipoprotein‐induced HUVECs injury by upregulating ALDH2
Authors: Bai Yunpeng , Wang Mei , Yang Yin , Liu Xiankun , Chen Qingliang , Guo Zhigang
Published: October 2021

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the most dangerous factor for human death, which is a lipid‐driven chronic inflammatory disorder of the arteries. Growing evidence has showed that microRNAs play an important role in AS. However, the role of mir‐193b‐3p in atherosclerosis has been poorly studied to date. Therefore, we focused on the potential role of miR‐193b‐3p in atherosclerosis. The expressions of miR‐193b‐3p in the serum of AS patients were detected. We also established an oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL)‐induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) apoptosis model in vitro. The mRNA and protein levels of target molecules were detected by RT‐qPCR and Western blotting. Apoptosis of HUVECs was determined by Annexin V/PI staining on a flow cytometry. The potential molecular targets of miR‐193b‐3p were investigated by applying such technologies as dual‐luciferase reporter and RIP assay. Our study showed that miR‐193b‐3p expression level was significantly lower in AS patients than controls. ROC curve analysis showed that the areas under the curve (AUC) of plasma miR‐193b‐3p was 0.859. We also found that miR‐193b‐3p was decreased in ox‐LDL‐induced HUVECs and knockdown of miR‐193b‐3p suppressed ox‐LDL‐induced HUVECs injury. By using bioinformatics analysis, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) was predicted as a downstream target of miR‐193b‐3p. The ALDH2 gene is also involved in the development of atherosclerosis. Meanwhile, inhibition of miR‐193b‐3p and ALDH2 protects ox‐LDL‐induced HUVECs against endoplasmic‐reticulum (ER) stress. In conclusion, inhibition of miR‐193b‐3p was able to suppress ox‐LDL‐induced injury in AS through targeting ALDH2 and reducing ER stress.
Quantification of soft tissue parameters from spatially resolved diffuse reflectance finite element models
Authors: Vasudevan Vysakh , Narayanan Unni Sujatha
Published: October 2021

Spatially resolved diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (SRDRS) is a non‐invasive optical technique that helps in clinical diagnosis of various tissue microcirculation and skin pigmentation disorders based on collected backscattered light from multi‐layered tissue. The extraction of the optical properties from the reflectance spectrum using analytical solutions is laborious. Model‐based light tissue interaction studies help in quantifying the optical properties. This work presents the use of finite element models of light tissue interaction for this purpose. A bilayer model mimicking human skin was considered and the diffused reflectance spectra at multiple detector points were generated using finite element modelling for varying melanin concentration, epidermal thickness, blood volume fraction, oxygen saturation and scattering components. The reflectance value based on varying optical parameters from multiple detection points lead to the generation of a look‐up table (LUT), which is further used for finding the tissue parameters that contribute to the spatially resolved reflectance values. The tissue parameters estimated after inverse modelling showed a high degree of agreement with the expected tissue parameters for a test dataset different from the training dataset.
Suitability of aluminium copper silicon eutectic as a phase change material for thermal storage applications: Thermophysical properties and compatibility
Authors: Rawson Anthony , Villada Carolina , Kolbe Matthias , Stahl Veronika , Kargl Florian
Published: October 2021

Latent thermal storage in metals can overcome many issues related to the temporal or spatial intermittency of heat resources, particularly in the provision of heat in electric vehicles. Alloys that are energy dense and thermally conductive are most attractive for thermal storage applications. The eutectic alloy, Al‐25% Cu‐6% Si (wt%) has been identified as an optimal metallic phase change material melting in the temperature range 508°C to 548°C. Through differential scanning calorimetry, light flash analysis and long‐term reaction experiments, the thermal and compatibility characteristics of this alloy are experimentally determined. Graphite and alumina are observed as compatible housing materials for the alloy after 2 weeks at 550°C. Reaction depth and products at the interface with iron and stainless steel are identified with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction analysis. A volumetric energy density of 0.7764 ± 0.0178 kWh/L was calculated for an operating range of 160°C to 660°C from the measured properties, suggesting the material is an excellent candidate for thermal storage in electric vehicles.
Laparoscopic removal of a mesenteric cyst: A case report
Authors: Kalampokas Emmanouil , Giannis Georgios , Kalampokas Theodoros , Eleftheriades Makarios , Panoulis Konstantinos , Vlahos Nikolaos
Published: October 2021

Synopsis

The present study reports a case involving laparoscopic removal of a large small bowel mesenteric cyst, initially diagnostically assumed to be an undetermined ovarian cyst.
Burnout and resilience among pharmacists: A Singapore study
Authors: Tan Yan Zhi , Chong Jin Jian , Chew Lita Sui Tjien , Tan Kok Hian , Wang Aiwen
Published: October 2021

Background

Rising demand in healthcare in recent years has placed significant stress on healthcare professionals and has inevitably led to increasing levels of burnout. While associated factors and negative consequences of burnout have been quantified within various professions, there is a paucity of data describing its prevalence and impact among pharmacists, and within the Asia‐Pacific region.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of, and characterize risk factors, that may be associated with burnout among pharmacists in patient care sectors in Singapore.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among pharmacists in patient care sectors in Singapore from February to April 2020. Participation invites to the survey were disseminated by pharmacy managers in patient care areas across all healthcare institutions in Singapore. The Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey (MBI‐HSS) was used to assess the prevalence of burnout in the respondent, and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) and Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy (JSPE) to evaluate resilience and empathy respectively. Demographic characteristics were also collected and summarized. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to explore associations between burnout and potential risk factors. Possible impact from burnout was also assessed as part of the questionnaire. Burnout was defined as a high emotional exhaustion (EE, ≥27) or depersonalization (DP, ≥10) score on the MBI‐HSS.

Results

Seven hundred and six out of 1289 pharmacists (54.8%) completed the survey, of which 61.5% of respondents experienced burnout. Factors associated with burnout included institution of practice, hours at work, number of patient care hours, resilience, and empathy. Pharmacists with burnout had a higher propensity to seek a job change, were less satisfied with work, and took more medical leave than non‐burnout counterparts.

Conclusion

Burnout among Singapore pharmacists is prevalent and deserves attention. Comprehensive strategies are needed to mitigate the potential negative consequences that may arise from increasing levels of burnout.
Spatiotemporal variation of precipitation on a global scale from 1960 to 2016 in a new normalized daily precipitation dataset
Authors: Liu Jun , Wu Dongyou , Li Yue , Ren Hongli , Zhao Yongtao , Sun Xiaoyu , Zhang Haitao , Ji Mingxia
Published: November 2021

Increases in total and extreme precipitation have been investigated worldwide using limited spatiotemporal data based on surface observations and satellite remote sensing during recent decades. However, it remains unclear whether rain gauge daily precipitation records also show a significant increase in global precipitation. In this study, we first apply the transformed version of the penalized maximumFtest (“transPMFred”) to homogenize daily precipitation (P) records from 10,629 stations around the world during 1960–2016 from a dataset (GHCN‐CMA) that combines the daily precipitation data from the Global Historical Climatology Network (GHCN‐Daily) dataset and the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), and then utilize the homogenized data to study the frequency of daily precipitation on a global scale. The results indicate that precipitation frequency exhibited significant increasing trends from 1960 to 2016 across most of the globe, except for East Asia. Moreover, the variability of global precipitation frequency was more pronounced in wet regions than dry regions, especially in North America, Europe and East Asia based multiple daily precipitation datasets. The regional average frequency for moderate (30th < P ≤ 60th percentile), heavy (60th < P ≤ 90th percentile) and very heavy (P > 90th percentile) precipitation increased in North America and Europe. Changes in precipitation frequency decreased for light (P ≤ 30th percentile) and moderate precipitation but increased for heavy and very heavy precipitation, which mainly occurs in dry regions of Australia. Moreover, precipitation frequency in wet and dry regions of East Asia showed opposite trends, with a decrease in wet regions and an increase in dry regions.
Firm performance, government regulation, and managerial effort: Evidence from China
Authors: Wu Dongxu , Wu Zhongmin
Published: November 2021

Using the most recent data from the World Bank Enterprise Survey for China, this research shows that ownership structure significantly impacts firm performance and firm characteristics. Our results show the importance of getting to grips with government regulation, as the time spent by senior management dealing with government regulation is the most significant independent variable. Another key finding of this article is that China has excellent economic institutions conducive to doing business. It is far easier to conduct business in China than in the other BRIC countries. We conclude that partial privatizations of state‐owned enterprises on their own are unlikely to bring substantial efficiency gains. Reforms must also include better incentives and monitoring of management. Our findings are robust and consistent with various controls, alternative measures of firm performance, and different estimation methods, including quantile regression.
An overview of magnetic ionic liquids: From synthetic strategies to applications in microextraction techniques
Authors: Alves Mônica Silva , Neto Luiz Carlos Ferreira , Scheid Camila , Merib Josias
Published: November 2021

Remarkable progress has been achieved in the application of magnetic ionic liquids in microextraction‐based procedures. These materials exhibit unique physicochemical properties of ionic liquids featuring additional responses to magnetic fields by incorporating a paramagnetic component within the chemical structure. This intriguing property can open new horizons in analytical extractions because the solvent manipulation is facilitated. Moreover, the tunable chemical structures of magnetic ionic liquids also allow for task‐specific extractions that can significantly increase the method selectivity. This review aimed at providing an up‐to‐date overview of articles involving synthesis, physicochemical properties, and applications of magnetic ionic liquids highlighting recent developments and configurations. Moreover, a section containing critical evaluation and future trends in magnetic ionic liquid‐based extractions is included.
QQ‐NET – using deep learning to solve quantitative susceptibility mapping and quantitative blood oxygen level dependent magnitude (QSM+qBOLD or QQ) based oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) mapping
Authors: Cho Junghun , Zhang Jinwei , Spincemaille Pascal , Zhang Hang , Hubertus Simon , Wen Yan , Jafari Ramin , Zhang Shun , Nguyen Thanh D. , Dimov Alexey V. , Gupta Ajay , Wang Yi
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To improve accuracy and speed of quantitative susceptibility mapping plus quantitative blood oxygen level‐dependent magnitude (QSM+qBOLD or QQ) ‐based oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) mapping using a deep neural network (QQ‐NET).

Methods

The 3D multi‐echo gradient echo images were acquired in 34 ischemic stroke patients and 4 healthy subjects. Arterial spin labeling and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) were also performed in the patients. NET was developed to solve the QQ model inversion problem based on Unet. QQ‐based OEF maps were reconstructed with previously introduced temporal clustering, tissue composition, and total variation (CCTV) and NET. The results were compared in simulation, ischemic stroke patients, and healthy subjects using a two‐sample Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test.

Results

In the simulation, QQ‐NET provided more accurate and precise OEF maps than QQ‐CCTV with 150 times faster reconstruction speed. In the subacute stroke patients, OEF from QQ‐NET had greater contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) between DWI‐defined lesions and their unaffected contralateral normal tissue than with QQ‐CCTV: 1.9 ± 1.3 vs 6.6 ± 10.7 (p = 0.03). In healthy subjects, both QQ‐CCTV and QQ‐NET provided uniform OEF maps.

Conclusion

QQ‐NET improves the accuracy of QQ‐based OEF with faster reconstruction.
Providing English and native language quotes in qualitative research: A call to action
Authors: Younas Ahtisham , Fàbregues Sergi , Durante Angela , Ali Parveen
Published: November 2021

Background

When publishing qualitative research in international journals, researchers studying non‐English‐speaking participants provide quotes in English language. This is an issue of increasing concern given the need to be rigorous to represent a diversity of participants within their context, beyond how language (alone) situates them.

Aim

To argue for providing English and native language quotes in qualitative research reports.

Design

Discussion.

Methods

This paper is based on the literature on use of quotes and translation in qualitative research and authors’ experiences of publishing qualitative research.

Results

Provision of native and English language quotes may allow for greater transparency of findings, thereby reflecting that the researchers adequately captured the socially and culturally dependent experiences of participants.

Conclusions

Presentation of findings with eloquent quotes serves as the gateway into the sociocultural experiences of individuals. We argued against the norm of providing translated quotes in qualitative reports and build a case for the provision of native as well as English language quotes to promote cross‐cultural understanding.
Effects of surfactins, Bacillus lipopeptides, on the behavior of an aphid and host selection by its parasitoid
Authors: Denoirjean Thomas , Ameline Arnaud , Couty Aude , Dubois Françoise , Coutte François , Doury Géraldine
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Lipopeptides extracted from the Bacillus genus are emerging biopesticides, especially in protecting crops against phytopathogens. Among the three main families of lipopeptides, surfactins have been identified as having insecticidal properties against several insect orders. However, the sublethal effects of these promising biopesticides on insect pests and their natural enemies remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of surfactins topically applied on black bean aphid Aphis fabae mortality. First, the effects of surfactins on aphid mortality were determined by delivering increasing concentrations to adults and nymphs. Second, the sublethal effects of surfactins on locomotor activity and feeding behavior of surviving aphids were evaluated using the electropenetrography method. Finally, the effect of host exposure to surfactins on host selection behavior by Aphidius matricariae parasitoid females was analyzed.

RESULTS

Four surfactins concentrations were studied (0.5, 1, 2.5 and 5 g L–1). There was concentration‐dependent mortality in response to surfactins at 24 h after treatment. Surfactins impacted aphid behavior when delivered at 1 g L–1 by inducing a greater locomotor activity and a reduction in feeding activity. By contrast, at the third trophic level, exposure of aphid hosts to surfactins did not affect behaviors leading to host recognition and acceptance by parasitoid females.

CONCLUSION

This study highlighted the consequences of aphid exposure to surfactins in the context of bottom‐up regulation. Although surfactins could directly impact aphid behavior, they had no apparent consequences on the host selection behavior exhibited by parasitoid wasps.
A joint model for multivariate longitudinal and survival data to discover the conversion to Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kang Kai , Pan Deng , Song Xinyuan
Published: November 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an incurable and progressive disease that starts from mild cognitive impairment and deteriorates over time. Examining the effects of patients' longitudinal cognitive decline on time to conversion to AD and obtaining a reliable diagnostic model are therefore critical to the evaluation of AD prognosis and early treatment. Previous studies either assess patients' cognitive impairment through a single cognitive test or assume it changes linearly across time, thereby leading to an incomplete measure of cognitive decline or overlooking the subtle trajectory pattern of patients' cognitive impairment. This study develops a new joint model to address these shortcomings. First, a dynamic factor analysis model is adopted to characterize cognitive impairment through multiple cognitive measures in a comprehensive manner. Second, a spline‐based random coefficient model is proposed to reveal possibly nonlinear trajectories of patients' cognitive decline. Finally, a proportional hazard model is considered to examine the effects of time‐invariant markers and time‐variant cognitive impairment on AD hazards. A Bayesian approach coupled with spline approximation techniques and MCMC methods is developed to conduct statistical inference. The application of the proposed method to the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative study provides new insights into the prevention of AD and shows a high prediction capacity of the proposed method.
Effect of water distribution patterns on the activation energy of unsaturated soils during phase transformation
Authors: Park Junghee , Yoon Hyung‐Koo , Kim Jongchan
Published: November 2021

Unsaturated soils in vadose zones often experience periodic phase changes during seasonal temperature fluctuations. The liquid in partially saturated soils significantly affects the physical and chemical processes associated with the phase transformations. This study examined the role of water distribution patterns on the activation energy of unsaturated soils. The results revealed that the homogeneously mixed and evaporation‐driven specimens exhibited higher activation energy than the horizontally layered specimen, which exhibited the lowest activation energy. In addition, the activation energy results indicated that the induction time, increased with an increase in the water saturation, requires a longer induction time and results in a more significant difference in the final products, such as elastic wave velocities, during the freezing process. In addition, the activation energy and soil stiffness results revealed that the homogeneous system required a higher activation energy than the heterogeneous system. The higher heterogeneity degree of the vertically and horizontally layered water specimens delayed the primary water‐to‐ice phase change. This study recognizes the significance of heterogeneity in activation energy for phase transformation in unsaturated particulate media.
Hypothalamic endocannabinoids in obesity: an old story with new challenges
Authors: Miralpeix Cristina , Reguera Ana Cristina , Fosch Anna , Zagmutt Sebastian , Casals Núria , Cota Daniela , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Rosalía
Published: October 2021

The crucial role of the hypothalamus in the pathogenesis of obesity is widely recognized, while the precise molecular and cellular mechanisms involved are the focus of intense research. A disrupted endocannabinoid system, which critically modulates feeding and metabolic functions, through central and peripheral mechanisms, is a landmark indicator of obesity, as corroborated by investigations centered on the cannabinoid receptor CB1, considered to offer promise in terms of pharmacologically targeted treatment for obesity. In recent years, novel insights have been obtained, not only into relation to the mode of action of CB receptors, but also CB ligands, non-CB receptors, and metabolizing enzymes considered to be part of the endocannabinoid system (particularly the hypothalamus). The outcome has been a substantial expansion in knowledge of this complex signaling system and in drug development. Here we review recent literature, providing further evidence on the role of hypothalamic endocannabinoids in regulating energy balance and the implication for the pathophysiology of obesity. We discuss how these lipids are dynamically regulated in obesity onset, by diet and metabolic hormones in specific hypothalamic neurons, the impact of gender, and the role of endocannabinoid metabolizing enzymes as promising targets for tackling obesity and related diseases.
Off-label-dosing of non-vitamin K-dependent oral antagonists in AF patients before and after stroke: results of the prospective multicenter Berlin Atrial Fibrillation Registry
Authors: Tütüncü Serdar , Olma Manuel , Kunze Claudia , Dietzel Joanna , Schurig Johannes , Fiessler Cornelia , Malsch Carolin , Haas Tobias Eberhard , Dimitrijeski Boris , Doehner Wolfram , Hagemann Georg , Hamilton Frank , Honermann Martin , Jungehulsing Gerhard Jan , Kauert Andreas , Koennecke Hans-Christian , Mackert Bruno-Marcel , Nabavi Darius , Nolte Christian H. , Reis Joschua Mirko , Schmehl Ingo , Sparenberg Paul , Stingele Robert , Völzke Enrico , Waldschmidt Carolin , Zeise-Wehry Daniel , Heuschmann Peter U. , Endress Matthias , Haeusler Karl Georg
Published: October 2021

Aims

We aimed to analyze prevalence and predictors of NOAC off-label under-dosing in AF patients before and after the index stroke.

Methods

The post hoc analysis included 1080 patients of the investigator-initiated, multicenter prospective Berlin Atrial Fibrillation Registry, designed to analyze medical stroke prevention in AF patients after acute ischemic stroke.

Results

At stroke onset, an off-label daily dose was prescribed in 61 (25.5%) of 239 NOAC patients with known AF and CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 1, of which 52 (21.8%) patients were under-dosed. Under-dosing was associated with age ≥ 80 years in patients on rivaroxaban [OR 2.90, 95% CI 1.05–7.9, P = 0.04; n = 29] or apixaban [OR 3.24, 95% CI 1.04–10.1, P = 0.04; n = 22]. At hospital discharge after the index stroke, NOAC off-label dose on admission was continued in 30 (49.2%) of 61 patients. Overall, 79 (13.7%) of 708 patients prescribed a NOAC at hospital discharge received an off-label dose, of whom 75 (10.6%) patients were under-dosed. Rivaroxaban under-dosing at discharge was associated with age ≥ 80 years [OR 3.49, 95% CI 1.24–9.84, P = 0.02; n = 19]; apixaban under-dosing with body weight ≤ 60 kg [OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.01–0.47, P < 0.01; n = 56], CHA2DS2-VASc score [OR per point 1.47, 95% CI 1.08–2.00, P = 0.01], and HAS-BLED score [OR per point 1.91, 95% CI 1.28–2.84, P < 0.01].

Conclusion

At stroke onset, off-label dosing was present in one out of four, and under-dosing in one out of five NOAC patients. Under-dosing of rivaroxaban or apixaban was related to old age. In-hospital treatment after stroke reduced off-label NOAC dosing, but one out of ten NOAC patients was under-dosed at discharge.

Clinical trial registration

NCT02306824.
Spiritual intelligence, mindfulness, emotional dysregulation, depression relationship with mental well-being among persons with diabetes during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ajele Wojujutari Kenni , Oladejo Teslim Alabi , Akanni Abimbola A. , Babalola Oyeyemi Bukola
Published: October 2021

Purposes

The study examined the mediation moderated effects of spiritual intelligence and mindfulness on the relationship between emotional dysregulation, depression and mental well-being. It also investigated the mediating effects of mindfulness on the relationship between spiritual intelligence and mental well-being in persons with diabetes.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 636 (age 32–74 years; mean = 40.31; SD = 8.40) people living with diabetes who are registered patients and were attending the clinic in Department of Endocrinology, Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Okitipupa and Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja. The data were analysed using Pearson Multiple correlation and mediation moderated model 29 and mediation model 4 of PROCESS macro. The analyses were carried out with PROCESS macro for IBM/SPSS Version 25.0.

Results

Showed significant and positive direct relationship between depression on mental well-being of person with diabetes, β = 0.39, 95 % CI (0.29, 0.48). Results showed mindfulness (β = 0.00, 95 % CI: 0.00, 0.00) and spiritual intelligence (β = -0.01, 0.00, 95 % CI: -0.01, -0.01) significantly moderated the existing direct relationship between depression and mental well-being of persons with diabetes Results showed significant and positive indirect relationship between depression and mental well-being via emotional dysfunctional of persons with diabetes, β = 0.46, 95 % CI (0.44, 0.48). Results showed mindfulness (β = -0.02, 95 %, CI; -0.03, -0.02) and spiritual intelligence (β = -0.00, 95 %, CI: 00.00, -0.01) significant moderated the existing indirect relationship between depression and mental well-being occurred via emotional dysfunctional of persons with diabetes. Results showed significant direct relationship between spiritual intelligence and mental well-being of persons with diabetes, β = -0.12, 95 %, CI: (0.09, 0.16). Results showed mindfulness significantly mediates the existing direct relationship between spiritual intelligence and mental well-being of persons with diabetes, β = -0.11, 95 %, CI: (0.08, 0.15). Results also significant direct relationship between spiritual and mindfulness of persons with diabetes, β = 0. 0.25, 95 % CI: 0.18, 0.31).

Conclusion

Emotional dysregulation play mediating role of the association between depression and mental well-being of persons with diabetes was moderated by spiritual intelligence and mindfulness. Therefore, the study concludes that pay attention spiritual intelligence and mindfulness in management of diabetes will enhance mental well-being of persons with diabetes.
Reinforcement Learning for Uncooperative Space Objects Smart Imaging Path-Planning
Authors: Brandonisio Andrea , Lavagna Michèle , Guzzetti Davide
Published: November 2021

Leading space agencies are increasingly investing in the gradual automation of space missions. In fact, autonomous flight operations may be a key enabler for on-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing (OSAM) missions, carrying inherent benefits such as cost and risk reduction. Within the spectrum of proximity operations, this work focuses on autonomous path-planning for the reconstruction of geometry properties of an uncooperative target. The autonomous navigation problem is called active Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) problem, and it has been largely studied within the field of robotics. Active SLAM problem may be formulated as a Partially Observable Markov Decision Process (POMDP). Previous works in astrodynamics have demonstrated that is possible to use Reinforcement Learning (RL) techniques to teach an agent that is moving along a pre-determined orbit when to collect measurements to optimize a given mapping goal. In this work, different RL methods are explored to develop an artificial intelligence agent capable of planning sub-optimal paths for autonomous shape reconstruction of an unknown and uncooperative object via imaging. Proximity orbit dynamics are linearized and include orbit eccentricity. The geometry of the target object is rendered by a polyhedron shaped with a triangular mesh. Artificial intelligent agents are created using both the Deep Q-Network (DQN) and the Advantage Actor Critic (A2C) method. State-action value functions are approximated using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and trained according to RL principles. Training of the RL agent architecture occurs under fixed or random initial environment conditions. A large database of training tests has been collected. Trained agents show promising performance in achieving extended coverage of the target. Policy learning is demonstrated by displaying that RL agents, at minimum, have higher mapping performance than agents that behave randomly. Furthermore, RL agent may learn to maneuver the spacecraft to control target lighting conditions as a function of the Sun location. This work, therefore, preliminary demonstrates the applicability of RL to autonomous imaging of an uncooperative space object, thus setting a baseline for future works.